Drivers could face a £5,000 fine over the way they use their air conditioning inside their car. The Highway Code stipulates that a lack of air conditioning could actually cost you a lot of money if you're not careful.
The reason for the rule is that a well air conditioned car can mean drivers avoid drowsiness when they are in control of their vehicle. If drivers ignore this guidance and end up losing control of their vehicle they risk a very hefty fine in the most serious cases.
Rule 237 of the code states: "Keep your vehicle well ventilated to avoid drowsiness. Be aware that the road surface may become soft or if it rains after a dry spell it may become slippery. These conditions could affect your steering and braking. If you are dazzled by bright sunlight, slow down and if necessary, stop."
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Breaking the Highway Code could see you landed with a £100 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points on your licence for careless driving if caught becoming drowsy while driving. If the incident were to go to court, the penalty could jump up to as much as a £5,000 fine, nine penalty points and even a driving ban.
The government states: “Many of the rules in the Code are legal requirements, and if you disobey these rules you are committing a criminal offence. You may be fined, given penalty points on your licence or be disqualified from driving. In the most serious cases you may be sent to prison.”
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