Common windscreen wiper mistake that could land drivers with £2,500 fine and three points – how to check
DRIVERS are being urged to check their wiper blades or run the risk of getting a hefty fine of up to £2,500 and three points on your licence.
Wiper blades need to be kept in top shape to avoid any windscreen impairments.
Driving with either blunt or broken wiper blades is classed as driving your car in a dangerous condition.
This will mean you won't be able to wash you windscreen properly and could affect your driving.
Section 40a of The Road Traffic Act: Using a Vehicle in a Dangerous Condition Part II says: "A person is guilty of an offence if he uses, or causes or permits another use, a motor vehicle or trailer on a road when the condition of the motor vehicle or trailer, or of its accessories or equipment, is such that the use of the motor vehicle or trailer involves a danger of injury to any person."
According to The Highway Code, using a vehicle in a dangerous condition is punishable by a fine of up to £2,500.
Drivers would also be slapped with three penalty points on their licence.
Offenders that repeat the same or similar offence within three years risk being banned from driving.
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Wiper blades should be checked regularly and cleaned to make sure there's nothing on them that could smear the windscreen.
Even if they are doing their job properly, it is recommended to have your wiper blades changed every 6 to 12 months.
🔵 Read our Highway Code rule changes blog for the latest updates
Chris Lunn, category manager at Halfords Autocentres said: "Worn or damaged wiper blades won’t clear your windscreen effectively, which can lead to poor visibility while you’re driving.
"You can also fail your MOT for having wiper blades that are worn or damaged. So keep yourself safe and avoid unnecessary MOT retest fees by making sure that your wiper blades are in a good condition."
As rubber breaks down in hot, cold, wet or dry weather, Mr Lunn recommend changing your wipers every 12 months, or if you experience any of the following:
- Juddering on the screen
- Noise or squeaking across both dry and wet screens
- The blade feels worn down or has notches when you run a finger down it
- Your blade leaves streaks or unwiped areas on the windscreen
Elsewhere, drivers will now face up to a £200 fine and six points on their licence for scrolling at the wheel.
Plus, keep you eye on the new Highway Code rules coming into effect.
If you want to stay away from any unwanted parking fines, here's some top tips to avoid committing a parking offence.