Motorists have been warned they could be handed £1,000 and six penalty points on their driving licences for little-known Bonfire Night offences tonight.
Richard Evans, Head of Technical Services at webuyanycar, cautioned that parking vehicles too close to firework displays could result in hefty fines if debris settles on windows and mirrors, obstructing the driver’s view.
“British drivers have a legal requirement to make sure that their vehicle is safe to drive at all times,” Mr Evans explained.
The warning comes as thousands prepare for tonight’s celebrations across the country, with many unaware of regulations surrounding both parking near displays and transporting fireworks.
Experts have warned that drivers planning to carry fireworks in their vehicles face additional risks, with improper transport of fireworks potentially resulting in a £300 fine and six penalty points.
Firework debris poses a significant hazard to motorists, as particles can accumulate on windscreens and mirrors, compromising visibility and making vehicles unsafe to operate.
The legal obligation to maintain roadworthy vehicles extends to protecting cars from pyrotechnic residue during displays, whether public or private.
“Therefore, it is up to drivers to take precautions around Bonfire Night to protect their windscreens from any debris,” Mr Evans stated.
Drivers who fail to meet the rules could be severely fined tonight
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PA/GETTYVehicles parked at private residences face similar risks, particularly given that approximately 4.6 million Britons host their own firework displays, according to parliamentary evidence.
Motorists who fail to ensure their vehicles remain safe for driving due to firework debris could face a maximum £1,000 penalty, regardless of whether they were attending a public display or celebrating at home.
The Government’s ‘Fireworks: Be Safe, Not Sorry’ campaign recommends motorists maintain a minimum dropping zone distance of 100 metres by 50 metres from firework display areas.
“This ensures that debris from the fireworks does not settle on the windows and mirrors, impairing the driver’s vision,” Mr Evans noted.
Experts have warned that motorists must maintain a minimum dropping zone from firework display areas
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GETTYThe guidance applies to all displays, including the growing number of private celebrations hosted by British households.
Parliamentary evidence indicated that seven per cent of Britons organise their own firework displays, affecting millions of vehicles parked at residential properties.
“Even if you think you are keeping your car at a safe distance from public displays, your vehicle may still be at risk of collecting debris,” Mr Evans warned.
The requirement applies regardless of whether drivers have obtained insurance coverage, as safety protocols remain mandatory.
“If you are covered, remember that taking safety measures like keeping the fireworks dry and never leaving them unattended is still a must,” he added.
Drivers can be fined for carrying fireworks in vehicles
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PA“Another way of preventing debris from hitting your car windows is to keep them covered,” Mr Evans advised, suggesting outdoor car window coverings as an effective solution. Storing vehicles in garages or sheltered areas provides additional protection during Bonfire Night celebrations.
Motorists should also ensure their vehicles carry sufficient washer fluid before travelling to or from firework events, enabling immediate removal of any debris encountered during journeys.
Regular windscreen maintenance using specialised cleaners or polish helps maintain visibility, with microfibre cloths recommended for circular cleaning motions across all windows, the expert detailed.
Side and rear windows require equal attention, as clear visibility through all glass surfaces remains a legal requirement for safe driving.