Ask ten drivers about UK driving laws, and you will probably get ten different answers. Some rules are crystal clear, others are based on half-remembered advice or something someone once heard down the pub. To make things simpler, we have rounded up some of the most common UK driving law myths and questions and explained what the law actually says.
This is the sort of stuff every driver should know, but few ever look up.
Is it illegal to drive in flip-flops?
This one comes up every summer. The short answer is no, there is no specific law that bans driving in flip-flops.
However, you are legally required to be in proper control of your vehicle at all times. If your footwear slips off, gets stuck under a pedal or affects your braking, the police could argue you were driving without due care and attention. That can lead to a fine and points on your licence.
So while flip flops are not illegal, they are not a great idea either. If you want to find out more, we explained this in more detail.
Is it illegal to drive barefoot?
Again, no. There is no law that says you must wear shoes while driving.
Driving barefoot is legal in the UK, but the same rule applies as with flip-flops. If being barefoot affects your control of the vehicle, you could still be penalised. Most insurers also advise wearing suitable footwear, as it reduces the risk of slipping on the pedals.
Is it illegal to drive with the interior light on?
This is one of the most common driving myths, often passed down from parents to children.
Driving with your interior light on is not illegal. There is no law against it. That said, it can reduce your visibility at night due to reflections on the windscreen, which makes it unsafe.
If the police believe it affected your ability to drive properly, they could still stop you and offer advice or take further action.
Can you be fined for eating or drinking while driving?
Eating or drinking behind the wheel is not illegal by itself.
The problem comes if it distracts you. If you are seen swerving, braking late or not paying attention because you are unwrapping food or spilling a drink, you could be charged with careless driving. That can carry a fine of up to £100 and three penalty points, or more in serious cases.
A quick sip at traffic lights is unlikely to cause trouble. A full meal on the motorway is another story.
Can you get fined for splashing pedestrians?
Yes, you can.
If you drive through a puddle and splash pedestrians, you could be fined for driving without reasonable consideration for other road users. The maximum fine is £5,000 and you could receive penalty points.
Even if the splash was accidental, the law expects drivers to slow down and avoid it where possible.
Is undertaking illegal in the UK?
Undertaking is not strictly illegal, but it is strongly discouraged.
The Highway Code says drivers should normally overtake on the right. Passing a slower vehicle on the left can be considered careless driving if it is done dangerously or aggressively.
There are exceptions, such as slow moving traffic in queues or when a vehicle ahead is signalling to turn right. Outside of those situations, undertaking can land you in trouble.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car overnight?
Sleeping in your car is not illegal in itself.
However, where you park matters. If you are parked on private land without permission, or somewhere that causes an obstruction, you could be fined or moved on. Local councils also have powers to enforce restrictions in certain areas.
If you have been drinking and choose to sleep in your car, you could still be charged if the police believe you were in charge of the vehicle. That includes having the keys within reach.
What happens if you run out of fuel on the motorway?
Running out of fuel is not illegal, but stopping on a motorway unnecessarily is.
If your car comes to a stop because you have no fuel, the police may treat it as careless driving. You could receive a fine and penalty points, especially if it puts other drivers at risk.
It is always best to keep your fuel topped up and use motorway services when the warning light comes on.
Can you drive a leased car abroad?
Yes, in most cases you can drive a leased car abroad, but you will need permission from the finance company first.
You may also need additional documents, such as a VE103 certificate and insurance cover for driving outside the UK. Each finance provider has different rules, so it is always worth checking before you book a ferry or Eurotunnel crossing.
Is it illegal to drive with headphones on?
There is no specific law banning headphones while driving.
However, wearing them could prevent you from hearing sirens, horns or other important sounds. If the police believe this affected your awareness, you could be stopped for careless driving.
Hands-free systems are generally safer and far more practical.