Recent bouts of rain ice, and snow have left Scottish roads – and the cars driving on them – looking far from clean.
And while that’s an annoyance and a cosmetic issue, drivers are being warned that a dirty vehicle could result in a hefty fine.
Winter brings extreme changes in weather conditions that not only wreak havoc on the roads but also force your car to handle messy and difficult terrain.
However, experts at car cleaning retailer 1Dot warn that keeping your car clean in winter is essential, as a build of dirt covering your number plates could land drivers with a an eye-watering fine.
According to the Highway Code, number plates must be kept clean and clear. Obstructed number plates are illegal and can result in fines and other penalties. This is particularly important in winter when you’re more likely to pick up dirt or snow on your vehicle.
Both the front and rear registration plates must remain clean and visible before setting off and during your journey. Number plates help authorities and other drivers know when and where your vehicle was registered, in case you’ve committed another driving offence or if you are a potential eye-witness in an incident.
Number plates that have been obstructed by dirt risk being pulled over by the police and depending on the severity of the obstruction, could face an on-the-spot fine of £100 or receive a maximum penalty of £1000.
Years of decay may also mean that your car may fail its MOT if the plate cannot be read clearly. You also risk three penalty points on your driver’s record if caught.
Ash Young, founder of 1Dot, said: “Dirt, snow and grime are part and parcel of a British winter and most of the time it’s harmless when it appears on your car.
“But when certain areas of your vehicle are covered in dirt, that’s when you’re likely to receive some form of punishment or fine.
“It’s most dangerous when the windscreen, wing mirrors, windows and number plates are obstructed and impair your driving ability or cause you to become unidentified. Police may even assume that you’ve obscured your plates deliberately.”
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