An urgent warning has been issued to drivers who could be at risk of receiving a £1000 fine following Bonfire Night celebrations. 

Thousands are expected to descend on Strathclyde Country Park on Tuesday, November 5 for its firework celebration to catch the colourful displays and impressive bonfires.

Richard Evans, a spokesperson for webuyanycar, is sharing his advice for drivers who could be at risk of a fine this bonfire night, providing his top tips on how to prevent it.

Why are drivers at risk of a fine on Bonfire Night?

 

“The government’s “Fireworks: Be Safe, Not Sorry” campaign advises motorists to keep their vehicles well away from the fireworks display area this bonfire night, recommending a distance of at least 100m x 50m.

This is to ensure that debris from the fireworks and bonfires does not settle on the windows and mirrors, impairing the driver's vision. 

British drivers have a legal requirement to make sure that their vehicle is safe to drive at all times, therefore it is up to drivers to take precautions around bonfire night to protect their windscreens from any debris. 

Cars parked at home are no exception, especially after figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) suggest that 3.3 million adults host their own fireworks events in the UK, meaning even if you think you are keeping your car a safe distance from the public displays, your vehicle may still be at risk of collecting debris.

Failure to comply with the legal requirement to keep your vehicle safe for driving can result in a fine of £1,000.

Local drivers opting out of the bonfire celebrations must also be careful when planning journeys this week as the dark evening weather, accompanied by smoke from the bonfire and fireworks, will affect the road visibility for drivers, making it harder for them to see.

Tips for cleaning your windscreen 

 

When cleaning the glass use a specialised window cleaner, polish or household window cleaner.

Wipe with a microfibre cloth in a circular motion, overlapping and changing direction periodically to ensure the entire area is covered.

Don’t forget the side and rear car windows.

Before setting off to your Bonfire Night celebrations, make sure that your car has plenty of washer fluid to wipe away any debris on the drive home.