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The Highway Code - Must and Must Nots
Apr 1 2022 12:11PM
The Highway Code contains both advice and requirements by law. Gov’s website provides a comprehensive list of the Highway Code. Using this, learner drivers can easily identify which codes of conduct are required by law (these are referred to as MUSTS or MUST NOTS) and which are advice to drivers (these are referred to as SHOULD / SHOULD NOTS or DO / DO NOTS). Failure to adhere to a law requirement can result in penalty points, fines and in worst case scenarios, a prison sentence, even if you are just a learner driver.
Highway Code Confusion
Here are a few regulations found in the Highway Code that might be confused as a suggestion, when in fact they are mandatory laws:
- If you require glasses to drive you MUST wear them. If caught driving without the right corrective lenses (defective eyesight) the maximum penalty can be 3 penalty points and a £1000 fine.
- You MUST NOT drive a vehicle that is carrying a load greater than the manufacturer's recommended weight limit – Fines can reach up to £300. In cases where the weight exceeds 30% over the manufacturer's limit, a court summons can be issued.
- If you are intending to stop paying tax on a vehicle you are no longer using, you MUST declare the vehicle as SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notification) – Failure to do so can result in penalties, such as: Clamping, on the spot fines (£80) and county court fines (up to £5000).
- Learner drivers MUST have L- plates displayed on their vehicle – Failure to do so can result in 3 penalty points.
The Highway Code is a valuable tool for all drivers, fully licensed and learner. Make sure to keep up to date with its latest versions and amendments by regularly checking the Gov website.
