Drivers splashing pedestrians face fines of up to £5,000

After the heatwave – which saw the country bake in temperatures of up to 35C – finally eased this weekend, widespread showers have caused some localised flooding.

Under section three of the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is illegal to splash someone as it amounts to driving “without reasonable consideration for other persons.”

Those found guilty of deliberately driving through puddles and splashing pedestrians will likely be hit with a £100 fixed penalty notice and three penalty points if caught by police.

However, should motorists be deemed to be driving in a manner that “amounts to a clear act of incompetence, selfishness, impatience, and aggressiveness” then the maximum punishment of a £5,000 fine could be levelled.

If drivers fail to pay the £100 fixed penalty or refuse the penalty notice they could also face the maximum £5,000 fine if the case is taken to court.

RAC road safety spokesman Pete Williams calls on motorists to show respect and care for other road users and pedestrians, to they don’t give out any unwanted soakings.

He said: “Anyone unfortunate enough to have suffered a drenching by an inconsiderate motorist splashing them when driving through a puddle would probably welcome a sizeable financial penalty for the driver.

“Since 2013 careless driving can be dealt with by a Fixed Penalty Notice with a £100 fine and three penalty points.

“If, however, they refuse [the notice] then they will face a magistrate who could impose a fine up to £5,000, although the maximum is very unlikely.”

Mr Williams said that the fine would then likely be appropriate to the level of distress caused, which would help send out a clear message to other drivers that this sort of behaviour is not acceptable.

Copyright Press Association 2018. Motoring News articles do not reflect the RAC’s views unless clearly stated.