Motorists could be slapped with heavy fines or even a driving ban for transporting Christmas presents this winter.
Many families will transport large presents between households in the run-up to the big day but this could present some challenges due to a little-known driving rule.
Large boxes or lots of small gifts placed in the boot could build up and block motorists’ view of the road behind.
Placing these in the passenger seat or back seats could also present an issue as it may stop drivers from seeing outside their windows.
Andrew Jervis, CEO of ClickMechanic said: “Many of us are reliant on our vehicles over the busy festive period, whether it’s taking gifts or Christmas trees home from the shop or embarking on a road trip to spend the big day with loved ones.
“But the risk lies in overloading our cars with quantities of items that can block our view of the road, posing a danger to ourselves and other road users.
“It’s absolutely essential that the driver can see a clear and full picture of the road through the vehicle’s windows and rear mirrors, and avoid creating blind spots.
“Meanwhile, it’s important to be careful that the weight of the load does not tip the vehicle’s overall weight past its safe limit.
“We should always take care when packing our vehicles, whether it’s with gifts, suitcases or a tree, to ensure our own safety and to avoid falling foul of the law.”
The Highway Code penalty table shows that driving a car in a dangerous condition may see motorists slapped with a hefty £2,500 fine.
Road users who are stopped by police officers could also be hit with three penalty points.
Meanwhile, there is an “obligatory disqualification” if motorists break the law within three years of a previous conviction for a similar offence.
The experts at ClickMechanic warn that blocking a car’s rear windscreen is not illegal as long as a vehicle has two rearview mirrors.
As well as blocking possible hazards, motorists have also been warned a stack of presents could break manufacturer weight limits.
Rule 98 of the Highway Code clearly states drivers “must not overload” vehicles or trailers.
Those who exceed the weight rules may be issued a £50 fixed penalty for packing their vehicles too full if it exceeds the weight limit.
