A car industry expert has revealed that motorists must properly adjust their driver seat headrests to avoid a significant fine and protect against neck and spine injuries that may occur during crashes.
This requirement, stated in Rule 97 of the Highway Code, carries a maximum penalty of a £1,000 fine and three licence points when broken.
Rule 97 also requires drivers to have their seat and steering wheel in appropriate positions.
Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “Many of us are probably guilty of not checking that our seat, wheel, and head restraint have been adjusted to be in the correct position each time we get in the car.
“Sitting incorrectly will not only compromise your safety in the event of a collision but can also cause discomfort when driving for long periods of time and potentially lead to long-term back and neck problems.
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Another commonly overlooked way drivers could receive a £1,000 fine is by playing the I-Spy game with other passengers.
The game, a staple of many family road trips, involves one participant selecting an object within their sight and revealing only its initial letter while the others attempt to guess what it is.
Failure to maintain total control of the vehicle or a full view of the road and traffic ahead carries a £1,000 fine and three licence.
In other words, the Highway Code considers playing I-Spy behind the wheel as a potential form of distracted driving.
