25 January 2023 , 10:23
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If you regard yourself as a good driver, no doubt you will pride yourself on being polite and considerate while out and about on the road. According to one driving expert, however, this politeness could well prove to be your downfall if you're not careful, even if you have the very best of intentions.
In typical British fashion, drivers in the UK will often signify gratitude to others on the road who show them courtesy, after being let into a junction or permitted to pass by in a safe manner. They may show their appreciation by waving or flashing their headlights, thinking nothing of it.
However, Comparethemarket motoring expert Julie Daniels has cautioned drivers against using a common 'thank you' gesture, warning that they could risk incurring fines of plus three penalty points, DevonLive reports.
You could be risking a fine of up to £1,000 (Stock Photo) (Getty Images/iStockphoto)As explained by Julie, research conducted by the price comparison site's car insurance team found that waving to say 'thank you' to fellow motorists is the most common driving courtesy, with more than 60 per cent of drivers admitting to doing just this. Many will be blissfully unaware of the potential consequences.
Julie said: "The Highway Code 2 states you should drive with both hands on the wheel wherever possible, to ensure drivers are always in full control of the vehicle.
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"If you are looking to thank other drivers for any reason, do so in a safe - and legal - manner, such as getting your passenger to wave on your behalf."
Rule 160 of the Highway Code states: "Drive or ride with both hands on the wheel or handlebars where possible. This will help you to remain in full control of the vehicle at all times. You may use driver assistance systems while you are driving. Make sure you use any system according to the manufacture's instructions."
If a driver is found not to have proper control of their car, they could well be slapped with a £1,000 fine, a discretionary disqualification, plus three penalty points on their licence.
Motorists should also think twice before flashing their headlights to say thanks, with Rule 110 of the Highway Code stating: "Only flash your headlights to let other road users know that you are there… Do not flash your headlights to convey any other message or intimidate other road users."
Again, drivers could face a bruising £1,000 fine if found to be in breach of this rule.