Driving with a dirty windscreen could cost you a £1,000 fine, points on your licence or even a driving BAN

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DRIVERS could be slapped with a hefty penalty for failing to clean their windscreen properly.

Dirty car windows could cost Brits a £1,000 fine, points on your licence or even a driving ban.

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Drivers must keep their windscreens clear and cleanCredit: Getty

If you head out on the road with a dirty windscreen and it has an affect on your ability to see properly, you could be charged with careless driving in the event of an accident.

Even if you’re involved in an incident that isn’t strictly your fault, if a court finds the outcome could have been lessened or prevented if you had a clearer view, you could still be penalised.

And it could be an incredibly expensive mistake, as failure to keep your windscreen, side and rear windows clear could cost you a £1,000 fine, disqualification and three points on your license.

Under Regulation 30 of The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, drivers are warned they must keep all glass clear of obstruction.

The law states: “All glass or other transparent material fitted to a motor vehicle shall be maintained in such condition that it does not obscure the vision of the driver while the vehicle is being driven on a road.”

Furthermore, Section 6 of the Highway Code states that windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision – which can be tough in the lead up to winter.

Claire Rogan at Peter Vardy says, “Drivers have a legal responsibility to ensure their vehicle is in a roadworthy condition and that includes cleaning it. 

TOP TIPS TO KEEP YOUR WINDSCREEN CLEAR

1.     Fallen Leaves

If you have no choice other than to park under a tree, when you return to your car make sure to clear any leafy debris and twigs from your windows so they don’t block your vision when you drive. If a dirty windscreen was found to be the reason for a crash, you would be found at fault and could refuse to pay out.

2.     Snow

The most effective way of avoiding a snow-covered windshield is a tarp sheet covering your car. If that’s not the solution for you, you can scrape the slush off the glass to ensure a clear view while driving. One method you must avoid is using hot water to remove snow from your windows. The rapid difference in temperature could result in your glass shattering.

3.     Steamed Windows

It may be tempting to give your windows a quick wipe with your sleeve so you can see and set off on your journey, but it’s not necessarily the safest option and could cause your windows to fog again.

Using the windscreen clearing setting in your car is best but you can also avoid future window fogging by cleaning your windows regularly with a vinegar and water solution.

4.     Low Sun

Sunlight can still impair your vision enough to land you a fine if not taking the proper precautions in winter.

Keep a pair of sunglasses in your car and make use of your visor to save your eyes of direct glare.

5.     Ice

Failing to de-ice your windscreen properly is illegal, so use a purpose-made ice scraper. You can also use a solution of water and rubbing alcohol to cut through the ice, making it easier to clear quickly.

“It’s inconvenient in the cold weather, but drivers must think about how their lack of motor care and maintenance could put other motorists at risk this winter.”

Driving with a dirty windscreen could also attract a similar charge as failing to properly de-ice your windscreen in the winter months.

Your car can be classified as being in a “dangerous condition” if part of your windscreen is obscured by ice, seeing you slapped with an on-the-spot fine.

We previously revealed how drivers could be fined for not wearing sunglasses on a bright day.

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