The Highway Code isn’t just a guide — some of its lesser-known rules are being enforced with steep fines. According to reports, drivers are being penalised for seemingly small infractions, such as inappropriate footwear, misleading eyewear, or unsecured animals — and these can have serious consequences when it comes to road safety and compliance.
What rules are catching drivers out?
Some of the highlighted rules include:
- Rule 94 (sunglasses at dusk/tunnels): Wearing dark glasses when visibility is low — e.g. in tunnels or at dusk — can be treated as losing proper control of the vehicle. Reports suggest fines up to £1,000 plus points or disqualification in severe cases.
- Rule 97 (footwear rules): Footwear must not prevent proper use of control pedals. Drivers using flip‑flops or ill‑fitting shoes may be deemed negligent, face fines, penalty points, or charges of “driving without due care.”
- Rule 57 (animals in vehicles): Pets or animals must be secured so that they don’t distract the driver or become projectiles in a sudden manoeuvre.
These rules are often overlooked by motorists — but enforcement can lead to significant financial and legal penalties.
Closing thoughts
This is a reminder to both drivers and the MOT industry: compliance isn’t just about lights, brakes, and emissions. The broader Highway Code rules matter too — and can lead to fines or safety risks. As an MOT tester or garage operator, your role can be more than inspection — you can help guide drivers toward safer, lawful motoring.
Original source: Express – Highway Code rule fines
