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Across the UK, snow has started to fall this weekend, causing chaos and road disruption. Drivers are dealing with treacherous conditions after an arctic blast hit parts of the country this week with more set to come, but they could also be facing hefty fines for making common mistakes when driving in the snow.

Drivers caught breaking one or multiple laws whilst driving in the snow could be liable to pay up to £30,000 worth of driving fines and penalties. With this in mind, Experts at have compiled a list of the most commonly made mistakes whilst driving in the snow and tips on how to avoid them this winter.

Snow on car roofs

Whilst a blanketing of snow can look pretty, it is vital that all and any snow is cleared from your vehicle before you set off on your journey. If the snow from the car roof is not removed and you are caught driving, you could receive a fine of up to £2,500.

This hefty fine is due to the high risk of snow flying off the car whilst you are driving and hitting other cars on the road, causing a potentially dangerous situation. It could also block your view or someone else's view of both the road and the other's surroundings.

Low tread on tyres

A vehicle driving with low tread on its tyres is dangerous at the best of times but can be an even higher risk when driving in snow and ice. The low tread will result in your car having less grip on the roads, making it harder to come to a stop.

The cost of not having at least the legal tread depth of 1.6mm on your tyre tread could see you facing a fine of up to £10,000, () To avoid this, regularly check your tread depth and consider changing your tyres once they hit the 3mm mark to ensure your tyres are properly prepared for the trickier conditions. Winter tyres are also recommended once the temperature hits below 7 degrees Celsius to ensure ultimate safety and grip on the snow and ice.

If you are unsure how to check the tread on your tyres or you need your tyres replaced in preparation for snowy conditions, you can for professional assistance.

Snow on car lights and number plates

Much like when it comes to having snow on the roof of your car, driving with snow covering your lights or your number plate could cost you a hefty £1,000 fine.

Checking for and clearing any snow that has settled on your lights or number plate before you drive will take 30 seconds, and ensure you are and your number plate and lights are fully visible whilst driving in treacherous weather conditions.

Not de-icing or de-misting your windscreen

One of the most common cold weather driving mistakes is getting behind the wheel and driving before your windows have been fully de-iced or de-misted. Driving with this kind of obscured visibility could see you not only facing a but also 3 points on your license.

To avoid this from happening, make sure you are keeping a scraper in your car, along with your other necessary winter car kit accessories before setting off on your journey. Whether you have left your car for 20 minutes or 24 hours, if your windscreen is misted or icy, ensure it is completely clear before driving.

Your windscreen can become more vulnerable during the winter than any other time of year due to the prolonged cold, so ensure you avoid forcefully and repeatedly striking the ice as this can shatter or chip your windscreen. If this happens, make sure to contact your or repair centre to get this fixed.

Defective exterior lights

Like having snow on your car obstructing your view, defective exterior lights can be extremely dangerous, especially in snow. Not only will this affect your own visibility but also other drivers around you.

After starting your car's engine, make sure you are taking a quick check around your car and ensuring all your lights are working correctly. This quick and easy check could save you facing a fine of up to £1,000. If the lights on your car are or do become defective, make sure to find your as soon as possible to avoid driving dangerously and risking any fines.

Lack of experience driving in the snow

Driving recklessly or dangerously, especially during the snowy periods can have you facing fines of up to £5,000.

If you are nervous or feel you need to brush up your driving skills in winter weather including snow and ice, it is worth speaking to your local or about driving courses that can help improve your skills on snow and ice. This can be helpful even for some of the most experienced drivers. Because winter brings unique driving challenges, it is important to ensure your skills are up to the task, too.

Leaving your car unattended to defrost

Leaving your car unattended whilst defrosting could land you in hot water. Whilst it is practically inviting thieves into your car and therefore insurance is likely to not cover you if your car is stolen, it is also an offence under section

If you daily to turn off your engine when instructed, you may receive a fixed penalty notice of £20 which can be increased to £40 if not paid within a specific time frame. Make sure to stay inside your car whilst defrosting before setting off on your journey. Beating the temptation to head back inside whilst your car is defrosting can save you both time and money.

Winter Maintenance Checklist

Ensuring your car is suitable to be driving in the snow may seem like additional effort, but by following this expert-approved list, you can avoid any expensive fines or accidents from occurring during the snowy period and ensure you and others on the road stay as safe as possible this winter.