Keeping a car on the road isn’t exactly cheap. With rising insurance premiums, fuel costs, and maintenance fees all creeping upwards, the last thing most drivers want is an avoidable fine landing through the letterbox. Yet, that’s exactly what thousands face every year – often for mistakes they didn’t even realise they were making.
It’s not just about speeding or ignoring red lights. Many fines are caused by everyday habits that feel harmless, yet they still break the law. So, whether you're behind the wheel of a company van, part of a growing fleet, or just trying to avoid extra costs, these are the mistakes worth avoiding.
1. Using Your Phone While Driving
Even holding a phone for a split second can land you in serious trouble. Under UK law, it’s illegal to touch your phone while driving, even if you’re stopped in traffic or at a red light. That includes checking notifications, scrolling music, or tapping maps – all of it is off-limits.
Hands-free systems are allowed, but only if the device is fully mounted and the driver remains in control. If you’re caught, you’re looking at six points on your licence and a £200 fine. In some cases, it can even go to court. So, it’s just not worth the quick glance.
2. Not Wearing a Seatbelt Properly
Wearing a seatbelt might seem obvious, yet plenty of drivers get it wrong. Twisted straps, sliding it under the arm, or not adjusting it to sit flat against the body – these all reduce its effectiveness and fall outside legal use.
Drivers are responsible for their own belt use, and in most cases, for passengers under 14 too. Penalties usually involve a £100 on-the-spot fine, though this can rise if taken further. Unless medically exempt, the rule is simple: strap in properly, every time.
3. Driving Without Valid Insurance
It’s easier than ever for authorities to check if you’re insured. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras constantly scan vehicles and cross-check them with the Motor Insurance Database. If your policy has expired – even by a day – expect consequences.
Driving without insurance carries heavy penalties: up to six points and a fixed fine of £300, though it can escalate quickly. Police can also seize and destroy the vehicle, so it’s worth double-checking policy dates before you hit the road.
4. Misusing Fog Lights in Clear Conditions
Fog lights are only meant for low visibility – and that doesn’t include a bit of drizzle or a late sunset. Using them in clear weather can dazzle other drivers, especially at night, and it’s classed as misuse of lighting equipment.
It’s a small mistake with an irritating outcome. You can be fined £50–£100 for leaving fog lights on unnecessarily. Most modern cars make them easy to switch on accidentally, so it’s something to check regularly, especially after a cold snap.
5. Speeding in Variable Limit Zones
Smart motorways are popping up across the UK, and they often use variable speed limits that can change several times across short distances. These limits are legally enforceable, even when there's no visible congestion.
What catches people out is that cameras stay active even when limits drop to 50mph or less. If you miss the change, a fine could follow. Points and penalties mirror standard speeding rules, and fines can go up to £1,000 depending on how far over the limit you are.
6. Tailgating or Aggressive Driving
Tailgating isn’t just annoying – it’s illegal. It falls under the umbrella of “careless and inconsiderate driving,” which also includes things like lane weaving, braking suddenly for no reason, or gesturing at other drivers.
Police don’t need to witness it themselves either – dashcam footage from other drivers can be used to issue fines. The minimum penalty is a £100 fine and three points, though more serious cases can lead to court appearances and even driving bans.
7. Displaying Illegal or Obscured Number Plates
This one’s often overlooked, but it’s a regular cause of fines – especially for vans, fleet vehicles, and personalised plates. Number plates must follow strict rules for font, size, spacing, and reflectivity. Anything that affects readability – including dirt, damage, or tinted covers – is a problem.
ANPR cameras rely on clear, legible plates. If they can’t read yours, expect to be flagged. Fines can hit £1,000, and the vehicle could fail its MOT. Custom plates are fine, but they need to meet DVLA standards. It’s one of those small details that make a big difference.
8. Blocking Box Junctions
Box junctions are those yellow criss-cross grids painted at busy intersections. You're only allowed to enter one if your exit is clear – otherwise, you’re blocking traffic and breaking the rules.
CCTV enforcement means that drivers can be fined automatically for stopping in a box, even briefly. Fines range from £70 to £130 depending on the council area. Given how easy it is to get caught out, it’s better to pause than risk a penalty.
9. Ignoring Lane Discipline on Motorways
Middle-lane hogging is more than just irritating – it’s illegal. Motorways are designed for overtaking on the right, then returning to the left when safe. Sitting in the middle or outside lane when the left is clear counts as careless driving.
The same rules apply to weaving between lanes or cutting across too suddenly. Offenders can receive fines and penalty points, and in some cases, a requirement to attend driver awareness courses. For fleet drivers, it’s something that could also affect professional records.
10. Parking in Restricted or Dangerous Areas
Everyone’s tempted to pull over “just for a second,” but restrictions exist for a reason. Parking on double yellows, school zig-zags, pavements, or blind bends can all result in fines. In some cases, it can also pose safety risks, especially near junctions or crossings.
Parking enforcement varies by council, but most use mobile cameras or patrols to issue penalties. Fines can range from £50 to £130. For tradespeople or small business owners, regular parking fines can quickly add up to a costly problem.
Stay Aware, Save Money
With so much happening on the road, it’s easy to let a few things slip. But even small oversights can end up costing big money – or worse, your licence. Most of these offences aren’t done on purpose, which is why staying informed is one of the easiest ways to avoid them.
Whether you're managing a fleet, driving for work, or just getting from A to B, it’s worth brushing up on the basics every now and then. It’s not just about avoiding fines – it’s about staying safe, legal, and stress-free behind the wheel.