Personalising your car is a trend which has grown in recent years with people showing off their accessories on social media as they make their mark on their vehicle. There are numerous clips on platforms such as TikTok with car owners highlighting gadgets they have in their motors.
But experts have warned that doing this could see motorists landed with a hefty £1,000 fine and even penalty points as it can be a breach of the Highway Code. And while this trend can be seen as a bit of fun, using some accessories could lead to drivers feeling the pinch during a cost of living crisis.
Among the most controversial items making the rounds on social media is the LED hand gesture light. This device – which attaches to the rear window and allows drivers to display illuminated symbols at other motorists, including a not-so-polite middle finger – is raising red flags for safety reasons.
James Jackson, CEO of Bumper, an automotive payments provider, has warned that these devices not only encourage road rage but also obstruct a driver’s rear view, putting them in breach of the Highway Code.
He said: “Using this gadget to flash rude gestures at other drivers isn’t just bad etiquette. It can be classed as aggressive driving, which increases the risk of accidents. Plus, anything that impairs a driver’s ability to see the road clearly is a serious hazard.”
Under the Highway Code, failing to maintain full control of the vehicle or a clear view of the road ahead could result in a fine of up to £1,000 for standard vehicles, increasing to £2,500 for larger passenger and goods vehicles. Drivers also risk receiving three penalty points on their licence.
It’s not just LED hand gesture lights that could cause issues. The expert has highlighted several other accessories that, while popular, could get drivers into trouble:
1. Fluffy steering wheel covers
While they may look cute and cosy, these can reduce grip and control over the vehicle, increasing the risk of an accident.
2. Rear-view mirror decorations
Dangling air fresheners, dream catchers, or even small ornaments could obscure visibility and be considered an obstruction.
3. Dashboard ornaments
Similarly, excessive decoration on the dashboard can limit a driver’s field of vision, making it harder to react quickly.
4. LED car strip lights
Some of these violate The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989, which prohibits lights displaying a red glow at the front or back of a vehicle.
“While many of these accessories seem harmless or even practical, they could result in unexpected fines, points on your licence, or even a potential safety hazard on the road,” added James.