With millions of drivers set to take to the roads with the bank holiday weekend approaching, a law expert has issued a warning about a little-known road law that could land them with a £5,000 fine.
Motorists with campervans must be especially alert not to cause excessive traffic, experts at Swansway Motor Group say.
Over the weekend, police will be looking out for drivers flouting the Highway Code, particularly the little-known Rule 169.
This rule focusses on motorists causing long traffic queues, a sight often seen at the long bank holiday weekends, reports The Sun.
People who drive campervans – especially vintage models – need to be aware that breaching this rule could land them a £5,000 fine and between three and nine points on your licence.
Drivers are also being told to check their licence before hopping in a campervan – in case they don’t have the right permissions.
The expert said: “Motorists would be wrong to assume that they can just hop into a campervan and hit the road.
“Check your driving licence to be sure, because driving a vehicle without the correct licence can lead to a fine of £1,000 and between three to six points on your driving licence.”
The experts say the rules on sleeping in your van are also hazy.
They explained the safest way is to find a campsite that accommodates campervans. While some pubs also allow campers to use their sites overnight too.
The expert also warned motorists about drink-driving, saying they could have to prove they had no intention of driving their van if they are over the limit.
If you are found to be in charge of a vehicle whilst over the legal limit, you could face three months imprisonment, up to £2,500 fine and a potential driving ban, they added.
