How common habit could land you a £2k fine in your car
A COMMON habit while driving could land you a fine of up to £2,000.
It seems absurd at face value, but nose picking is actually considered a form of careless driving.
Careless driving can include actions that distract the driver and can potentially cause accidents.
"Most people don't realise that such a seemingly innocuous action could have legal repercussions," observes Michael Bissona of the .
"The key thing here is distraction," Bissona explains. "Even something as tiny as this momentary lapse in concentration could result in a serious accident.
"This is precisely why the law is put into place - not to punish nose pickers, but to encourage road safety."
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Careless Driving: A Broad Term
Careless driving, as defined in UK law, encompasses a broad range of activities.
The following actions can all be interpreted as "careless" or "inconsiderate" driving:
- Eating and drinking
- Changing CD or radio station
- Applying makeup
- Arguing with passengers or gesturing at other motorists
- Reading maps
Much like nose picking, these activities can take your attention away from the road and potentially put you and others in danger.
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As a result, doing any of these while driving can also land you a hefty fine.
The High Paying Fines
Under Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, drivers have a legal obligation to drive with due care and attention.
If anyone fails to comply with this, they can land a fixed penalty of £100 and three penalty points on their license.
But for more serious offences - like not having full control of your vehicle because you were momentarily distracted by your nose - fines could escalate to a staggering £2000.
Drivers can also be taken to court where they could be disqualified from driving or have their license endorsed.
Staying on the Safe Side
When all is said and done, it's quite simple. You need to focus all your attention on the road when driving.
As Bissona advises: "Our constant message to drivers is - keep your eyes on the road, not on distractions, whether they be your nose or anything else."
Everything else can wait until you've safely reached your destination.
Remember, that quick pick could cost you more than you bargained for.
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So, next time you feel the urge to have a rummage, wait until you've parked up or take a break at a service station.
Make road safety a priority - not just for your own sake, but for everyone else on the road too.