Drivers ‘must’ have this item in their cars from this week


Motorists are being warned they could face fines and penalty points for driving with fogged-up or obstructed windscreens as colder, damp autumn weather sets in.

Following an unusually warm and dry summer, the recent temperature drop has led to a common hazard: windows quickly fogging up in the morning. Drivers are being urged not to start their journeys without a clear view of the road, as doing so puts themselves and others at risk and could lead to significant penalties.



The Highway Code explicitly states that a driver's windscreen and windows must be kept clean and free of obstructions at all times. Failure to adhere to this rule, especially if it contributes to an incident, can result in a £1,000 fine and three penalty points on the driver's licence.

A simple and effective solution is to keep a microfibre cloth in the car. This inexpensive tool allows drivers to quickly and easily clear condensation from their windscreen before setting off. A spokesperson from BigWantsYourCar.com emphasized the importance of this precaution, stating, "A fogged-up windscreen might not seem serious, but legally, any obstruction to your view of the road is enough to land you with a fine. It’s one of the cheapest and most effective safety tools you can carry.”