I’m a driving expert – you risk being slapped with £1,000 driving fine if you use a common ‘thank you’ gesture

DRIVERS have been warned they face a £1,000 fine if they use common 'thank you' gestures.

Most motorists think waving to other drivers is polite, but it can actually put others at risk.

The Highway Code states you should drive with both hands on the wheel wherever possible to ensure drivers are always in full control of the vehicle.

This means just the simple act of lifting a hand off the wheel means you face a fine.

Rule 160 of the says: "Drive or ride with both hands on the wheel or handlebars where possible.

"This will help you to remain in full control of the vehicle at all times.

"You may use driver assistance systems while you are driving.

"Make sure you use any system according to the manufacturer's instructions."

According to the Government, “many of the rules in the Code are legal requirements, and 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.”

DRIVING TEST

A study by the car insurance team at has found many drivers don't know that certain actions, which are often perceived as good manners, are actually illegal.

Julie Daniels, a motoring expert from the company, shared some tips and warnings on these ‘unofficial rules’ of the road to ensure you stay safe and avoid a hefty fine.

She says that alerting other drivers of upcoming speed traps, such as mobile speed camera vans, puts drivers at risk of a fine of up to £1,000.

Alerting other drivers of mobile speed camera vans is interfering with police duties, which is an offence under section 89 of the Police Act.

According to their study, 60% of motorists admit waving to say 'thank you' to fellow motorists.

If you want to thank other drivers for any reason, you should get your passenger to wave on your behalf.

Meanwhile, you could be fined £200 for using phones at the wheel.

It could even means your passenger could be fined for using a phone.