Urgent warning to everyone wearing gloves while driving this week

Drivers have been warned about the risks involved with wearing gloves while driving during bitterly cold conditions this week. Many may be tempted to leave the gloves, hat and scarf on as they set off on journeys in freezing temperatures.

But by doing so they could be breaching the Highway Code and potentially leaving themselves at risk of having an accident. While special driving gloves can be worn, other winter gloves may not provide enough grip on the steering wheel.

Removing gloves, scarves and coats as the car warms up could also create problems and distract drivers' attention from the road. It could lead to fines and penalty points if someone has a crash. Experts say the best thing to do is the warm up the car before setting off.

READ MORE: Households put on alert for emergency £25 cold weather payments as Arctic blast hits UK

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Liam Barnes, manager at TopReg, said: "Leaving your winter jacket on while driving is a common mistake during colder months, as chilly mornings and slow-to-warm cars make it tempting to stay bundled up. However, this small action can distract you from the road, potentially resulting in a £100 fine and points on your licence for careless driving if stopped by police.

"Removing bulky coats, gloves, and scarves before setting off is crucial. While it may feel cold initially, these items can obstruct movement, reduce grip, or impair visibility, increasing the risk of accidents. Rule 97 of the Highway Code clearly states that clothing and footwear must not prevent you from using the controls properly. Ignoring this rule can result in fines of up to £5,000, three penalty points, or worse - an accident.

"Additionally, the Road Traffic Act warns that anything obstructing a driver’s vision can be deemed hazardous, leading to penalties ranging from a £100 fine to £1,000 and three points on your licence if taken to court. Prioritising safe and unrestricted driving attire is key to staying safe and avoiding costly penalties."