DRIVERS have been warned over a number of hot weather-related motoring mistakes that could see them slapped with a £2,500 fine.
Car expert David James revealed his six-step summer driving checklist to help you stay safe on the road.
David, who is the Sales Director at Right Fuel Card, shared his tips to make sure you're fully prepared for the warm weather, with a heatwave warning in place across the UK.
Check your tyres
The motors whizz said: "High temperatures can cause the air in your tyres to expand, leading to a potential blowout whilst on the road.
"As more than 20 per cent of all breakdowns in the UK occur due to tyre issues, it’s important that you check your tyres before setting off on long journeys in the hot weather.”
As well as the safety aspect, poor tyre conditions can lead to severe penalties.
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The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm and failure to meet that can result in a hefty fine of £2,500, and three penalty points for each tyre.
If all four tyres don't measure up, the resulting 12 points will see you slapped with a driving ban.
You can check your tread at a petrol station and it will always be measured during an MOT.
Cool it with coolant
Coolant is vital for the smooth running of your engine and it works overtime in the summer months.
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David advised: “Coolant does exactly what it says on the bottle and acts as a stabiliser to the engine temperature.
"This needs to be maintained regularly, especially in summer, as hotter conditions can pose additional threats to the overall running of your vehicle.
"Ensure you’re using coolant, as and when needed, to keep the temperature stable and safe.”
Along with brake fluid, engine oil and transmission fluid, coolant should always be kept topped up and you should check regularly to make sure you have enough.
Inspect the electrics
The electrical components in your vehicle need to be checked frequently to keep you and other road users safe.
This includes confirming that all of your lights are working and examining your battery to ensure that the terminals are clean and intact, as higher temperatures could increase the risk of electrical damage if the components overheat.
Indeed, one expert mechanic showed YouTube viewers how to change a battery in seconds and save hundreds on repair bills.
Keep your windows clean
With the warm weather comes more grime and bugs, which can hamper your view of the road.
David said: "Make sure you refill your screenwash ahead of your journey so you’re able to wash away any unwanted debris from your windscreen that might usually get washed away with the rain."
Driving with your view obstructed is actually an offence and can see you slapped with a £1,000 fine or three penalty points.
Pack some shades
Sun glare distractions can be dangerous for drivers as it increases the risk of an impaired view of the road ahead.
Traffic signals, road signs and even other vehicles can be missed, which leads to risks of collisions if you’re unable to react promptly.
Some drivers may squint or shield their eyes as protection, but this can divert your attention away from the road, which is dangerous for both you and other road users.
Taking your hand off the wheel to shield your eyes could see you charged with driving without due car and attention if you get into an accident.
This could land you up to nine penalty points and a £100 fine.
Instead, keep a pair of sunglasses in the car so you’re able to easily pull them out whenever the sun is bright.
Most cars are also equipped with sun visors on the driver and passenger sides.
Keep hayfever at bay
Hayfever can be a significant hazard for driving in summer, as many of the symptoms can affect your focus and prevent quick reactions.
David added: "Sneezing whilst driving at 70mph can result in blind driving for 70 yards, which might cause a tragic accident."
This could also cost you a £2,500 fine and three or more penalty points for driving without control of your vehicle.
He also warned: "If you suffer from hayfever, take a non-drowsy medication before your travels.
"Closing all windows and sticking to the air con to cool the car down can also help to minimise symptoms.
"If you feel like you’re about to sneeze, you should gently slow down and drop back from any vehicles in front.”
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This comes after drivers were wanted that withholding crucial information from the DVLA could land them hefty fines this summer.
Plus, a car expert has warned drivers that their summer wardrobe could cost them a £5,000 fine.
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