Drivers warned they could be fined £100s in the run-up to bonfire night – and how to avoid it
With bonfire night approaching, a motors expert has warned drivers they could be slapped £100s of fines.
It comes as thousands of families across the UK are expected to transport fireworks in their cars next Saturday.
Graham Conway, Managing Director at claimed that if drivers are caught travelling with in excess of 50kg of fireworks, it could lead to hefty punishments.
“Drivers can be punished with a £300 fine, six penalty points and invalidated insurance cover if they don’t follow the rules," said Graham Conway.
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“It is against the law for anyone to buy and transport more than 50kg of fireworks unless they hold a valid registration or licence," he added.
Drivers should adopt a few safety measures for transporting fireworks in their vehicles because they can put the driver's and passengers' lives at risk.
“Fireworks should be clear of ALL combustible materials, and shouldn’t be stored with items that will easily catch fire. Whilst transport cartons can be stored in the vehicle, they should be flattened out and completely empty," explained Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing.
It is important that drivers ensure they are not in close proximity to any combustible materials to avoid a fire.
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It's very important that people do not leave fireworks overnight because if it rains or it is foggy, the inside of the vehicle can become damp, making the fireworks more volatile and leaking explosive material.
Also, if a vehicle is involved in an accident when transporting fireworks, any sparks from the incident could ignite them.
Before transporting fireworks in your vehicle, it is advisable that drivers check with their insurance company if they are covered for transporting them.
“Some motor insurers will cover drivers who have bought fireworks for use at a personal display, however before even considering transporting them, it is important to check with your provider if you are covered," warned Conway.
