Driving home for Christmas could cost you 500 quid

As Brits hit the road for Christmas, it’s essential to prioritise safe driving when travelling with a full and busy car.

Motoring insurance experts at Tiger.co.uk have shared tips for driving safely this festive season.

Christmas often comes with lots of trips to visit family and friends and a packed car with luggage and presents, so drivers should make sure to stay safe on the roads to avoid facing fines and penalty points. 

Driving with a full car can pose a risk, Highway Code Rule 98 states drivers should secure objects when loading a car. This means any gifts or luggage should be safely secured before setting off. 

Failure to comply could result in a £500 fine and points on the driver’s licence. 

It’s also important to have full view from all windows, an obscured view can lead to 3 penalty points and a fine.

Carrying passengers in the car, especially young children, can pose a risk of distraction. During Christmas, when excitement is at an all-time high, it’s important to remain focused and take precautions such as planning ahead with short breaks and entertainment for the kids.

Drivers should also make sure they are not tempted by alcohol if they choose to drive, and ensure they are not too tired to be on the road. A recent Quotezone survey showed 83% said they think drink driving is more of an issue at Christmas time.

Christmas can also be a stressful time of year, trying to finish work and get organised for the festivities can be exhausting.  Fatigue while driving can be extremely dangerous, driving tired can have the same effect as drunk driving.

Ian Wilson, Managing Director and car insurance expert at Tiger.co.uk said: “Travelling during the festive season can be a dangerous mix of packed cars and noisy passengers.  But ultimately, it’s the driver’s responsibility to assess the safety of the driving conditions and decide whether it’s safe to drive. Adhering to the Highway Code is essential to help keep all road users safe and avoid fines and penalty points.

“Getting into an accident while driving with distractions in the car is considered negligence and can have serious consequences.  It’s important for drivers to take their time, maintain best practices, plan ahead and stop off when they need a break, especially during the busy holidays.”

Here are Tiger.co.uk’s top tips to help stay safe on the roads this Christmas:

1.Children

During Christmas, travelling with excited children can be hazardous on the road. To help ensure safety, finding ways to distract the children or scheduling trips during their nap time will help you focus fully on driving. Drivers are responsible for ensuring that children aged 14 and under are wearing seatbelts and using the correct car seat.

2.Loud noise

Loud noises, such as people talking or music, can also be dangerous while driving. Not being able to hear your surroundings may lead to missed warning signs and cause collisions. Rule 148 of the Highway Code advises against excessive noise that could distract drivers from important sounds, like sirens.*

3.Heavy load

Carrying a heavy load in your vehicle can affect its stability and increase the time it takes to start and stop. It’s important to consider how the weight in your vehicle will impact both your safety and that of your passengers. Improperly secured or overloaded vehicles can also lead to accidents or damage to the vehicle itself. Causing or likely to cause danger by reason of load or passengers can result in 3 penalty points.

4.Alcohol

Throughout the festivities, alcohol consumption tends to be high, so it’s important to follow the laws and avoid taking any risks. Also, having drunk passengers can disrupt your concentration, so it’s crucial to stay focused on the road and ensure that both you and your passengers get home safely.

Tiger.co.uk helps drivers compare and find savings on all sorts of motoring and lifestyle products, such as car insurance.

References

*https://www.brake.org.uk/get-involved/take-action/mybrake/knowledge-centre/driver-fatigue 

**https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code/general-rules-techniques-and-advice-for-all-drivers-and-riders-103-to-158 

SURVEY – Tiger.co.uk’s findings are based on a randomised survey of 1,000 respondents across the UK during October 2024, which represents a margin of error of approximately 5% at a 95% confidence level.

This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.