1. Loose Christmas Trees

Risk: If not secured properly, it could obstruct your view or fall off, causing road hazards. This can result in fines for "dangerous loads." Potential Fine: Up to £2,500 and three points on your license. Read our handy guide on how to transport a Christmas tree.

2. Festive Decorations (Hanging Objects)

Risk: Hanging items on the rear-view mirror or dashboard can obstruct the driver’s view, violating regulations on clear visibility. Potential Fine: £100 or more.

3. Wearing Fancy Dress or Costumes

Risk: Bulky or obstructive costumes can interfere with safe driving or seatbelt use. Masks can block peripheral vision. Potential Fine: Up to £100 for improper seatbelt use or dangerous driving.

4. Overloaded Vehicles (driving home for Christmas with lots of packing and gifts)

Risk: Overloading can affect vehicle handling, increase stopping distances, and lead to unsafe driving conditions. Potential Fine: £300 and possible points on your license.

5. Unrestrained Pets

Risk: Pets not secured with harnesses or carriers can distract the driver or become projectiles during sudden stops. Potential Fine: £100 fine for driving without proper control.

6. Driving with Ice and Snow on the Car

Risk: Snow or ice falling off the roof or blocking windows can obscure your vision or endanger others. Potential Fine: £60 and three penalty points.

7. Drinking Alcohol in a Parked Car

Risk: Being “in charge of a vehicle” while over the limit can lead to a charge, even if you’re not driving. Potential Fine: Up to £2,500 and possible driving bans.

8. Distracted Driving with Music or Devices

Risk: Loud music can obscure emergency signals, and phone use can cause distractions. Potential Fine: Up to £200 and six penalty points for phone use.

9. Driving with Open Alcohol Containers

Risk: Open containers can imply intent to drink while driving, even if you haven’t consumed alcohol. Potential Fine: Risk of fines or additional checks under suspicion of drink driving.

10. Carrying Fireworks

Risk: Improper storage can be considered unsafe or illegal transportation of hazardous materials. Potential Fine: Penalties vary but can involve severe consequences if deemed a public safety hazard.

11. Using Winter Tires or Chains Improperly

Risk: Chains or tires that are inappropriate for UK roads can cause damage and lead to penalties. Potential Fine: £50 or more for using unsuitable equipment.

12. Overloading Roof Racks

Risk: Excessive weight or improper securing can make the car unstable or create road hazards. Potential Fine: Up to £1,000 for insecure loads.