20 June 2023 , 14:25
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With Glastonbury 2023 officially kicking off today, many will already be making their way to Somerset to avoid the mad rush.
People are being warned to expect traffic delays in the South West, particularly on the first day of the festival - but the delays aren't the only things festival goers need to be worried about.
As festival seasons kicks off, revellers have been warned that there are two little-known driving mistakes you could be making that could lead to you being fined a whopping £2,500.
With a two person pre-erected scot style tent costing £400 for five nights at Worthy View, many will no doubt be considering other accommodation options.
It's illegal to be in charge of a car while you're drunk (stock image) (Getty Images)However, car lease comparison site Moneyshake has urged people not to consider sleeping in their car while drunk to save money.
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This mistake could be very costly to you, as if you're caught in a vehicle above the legal limit, you could face a maximum fine of £2,500. You could also be disqualified from driving and in serious cases face up to three months in prison.
It's not illegal to sleep in your car, but it is to be under the influence. If you're caught over the alcohol limit and "in charge of a motor vehicle on a road or other public place, after consuming so much alcohol that the proportion in his breath, blood or urine exceeds the prescribed limit," you can be found guilty under the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Another surprising mistake that could land you in a lot of trouble, is charging people for driving them somewhere. At a festival it's not uncommon to offer someone a lift, but charging them for the journey could land you a £2,500 fine, and may even get your insurance invalidated, get points on your licence or be disqualified.
Unless you have a valid taxi or private hire licence, you shouldn't be making a profit as you'd technically be running an unlicensed taxi.
You are allowed to ask for petrol money and a contribution towards running costs, but you shouldn't be taking more money than you'd spend on fuel.
These aren't the only laws you might unknowingly break while heading to a festival. You should also be careful not to drive with a dirty number plate, as you could risk landing a £1,000 fine.
According to The Highway Code, you have to make sure "lights, indicators, reflectors and number plates" are "kept clean and clear".
You should also be careful not to overload your car with things like camping chairs, food and clothing, as each car has a maximum loading limit.
If this limit, which should be stated in your vehicle's handbook, is ignored, you could face a fine of up to £300 and have three penalty points issued on your licence.
Lastly, be sure not to drive when you're tired, especially after spending multiple days at a festival, as you're at increased risk of an accident.
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According to the Highway Code, you must not "begin a journey if you are tired" because being sleepy could lead to "dangerous driving".
Your number plate must be completely clean and easy to read (stock image) (Getty Images)If you're found guilty of dangerous driving, you could be hit with an unlimited fine, driving ban and up to 14 years in prison if you end up having an accident.
Eben Lovatt, CEO of Moneyshake, said: "Festival-goers planning to drive to festivals this summer should be careful not to overload their car and to be well-rested before getting in their car. Whilst it may seem unlikely you may receive a fine, it is still possible you could be penalised so we recommend that you don't take the risk. Festivals are for having fun, not for getting in trouble and potentially losing your license, or causing harm."