Drivers have been warned to avoid a common practice that could lead to them breaking a lesser-known rule as temperatures are due to drop.
According to the Met Office, various parts of the country are set to see more snowfall in the coming days, with parts of the Scottish Highlands already experiencing temperatures as low as -7.8 degrees.
To help motorists stay safe when getting behind the wheel in cold weather, Markus Lindblad from the tobacco-free nicotine alternative retailer Northerner urged Brits to avoid vaping in their car.
He explained: “When the weather is colder, you may be tempted to vape in the car instead of standing out in the cold.
“Contrary to popular belief, vaping is technically illegal in the car. Drivers can receive a £100 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points if police believe the clouds of smoke impact your ability to drive safely.”
Whilst the subject can be a grey area, drivers should avoid vaping whilst behind the wheel since they are technically holding an electronic device.
However, the vapour produced by the devices is much more prominent in colder weather, potentially blocking the driver’s view of the road, increasing the likelihood of a serious accident.
As a result, drivers found vaping behind the wheel could receive an on-the-spot fine of £100 and three points, with those who cause an accident risking penalties of up to £5,000 and nine licence points.
Markus suggested that motorists who vape should switch to nicotine pouches which do not produce any vapour or even require drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel.
He advised: “Instead of using vapes in the car, products like nicotine pouches are a great alternative.
“Due to being smokeless or vapourless, they are perfectly safe for use while driving.”
Similarly, drivers were reminded by Markus to make sure that all of their windows are free from ice before they set off in order to prevent serious fines.
He continued: “Frosted windows and mirrors are a common occurrence as the weather gets colder, and when you’re headed out in a rush it may be tempting to just clear off a small section of your windscreen and windows.
“It is an offence however, to drive with your window obstructed, so it’s important to make sure it’s fully de-misted or de-iced before setting off to avoid receiving a fine of up to £60.”
