Wasps, Bees and other insects could cost drivers their licence.

That’s the warning as the hot summer months bring the bugs in to play and with a potential extra bite.

Drivers with insect phobia have been warned to stay away from the wheel.

Keep concentrating

Motor safety experts at Road Angel​​ have told drivers they could face huge consequences if they get ‘bugged out’ in the driving seat.

An insect inside a car poses a significant risk to anyone on the road, whether driver, passengers or other road users.

Under UK law and the Highway Code, any motorist found distracted while driving can be charged with a dangerous or careless driving offence by the police.

Longer days

Many insects thrive during the warm summer UK months. Wasp and Bee colonies are most active between June and August and produce the greatest fears of being stung. But there are also plagues of flies that breed and noticeably increase in numbers.

Drivers are being warned that if they get distracted while they are moving, it could be classed as a distraction. This, in turn, could see them landed with an unlimited fine, a driving ban, and even face imprisonment if they cause a crash.

Insects are a common cause of erratic behaviour. It can cause drivers to take their eyes off the road and put themselves and other road users in danger.

Furthermore, trying to get an insect out of the car, dodge it or kill it, can cause drivers to lose concentration. They can easily fall below the minimum standard of driving and attentiveness required by the law and. face tough penalties.

Stings and bites

The stark warning comes as the latest 2020 data shows over 2000 road accidents were caused by a distraction within the vehicle.

Those who fear insects have been told to keep their car windows closed at all times and regularly clean their vehicles to keep unwanted visitors away.

Gary Digva, the founder of Road Angel​​, says “many insects are notorious for causing a nuisance”.

“People fear insects, especially wasps, but don’t consider how dangerous this can be in a driving situation.

“If driving at high speed or along a motorway, the consequences could be devastating if a wasp caused someone to freak out and lose control.”

Digva adds that “there could be huge penalties, including fines worth thousands of pounds and they could even get their licence revoked”.

Keeping. ,windows shut and using air con instead is a great idea. Gary also believes keeping the car clean inside and avoiding eating in the car reduces attractions for insects.

“If an insect happens to get inside the vehicle while driving, the driver should remain calm and pull over as soon as it is safe.”

​​Keep it clean

The pesky. creatures also make a right mess to vehicle paintwork and windscreens, along ,with tree sap. And they are not easy to remove once they are there, and the longer they are the more difficult it is.

Experts at LeaseCar.uk have researched the nine most effective ways to keep cars clean throughout the warmer months.

Drivers can start off by trying to pressure wash away the grime with water. There are also bug remover sprays.

However, there are several household items that are also effective and.you probably already own them.

 

  1. Baking soda

One of the simplest ways to remove ingrained contaminants is to use baking soda mixed with water. It’s a common alternative for car soap and works well as a mild scrubbing paste.

 

  1. Pressure washer or hose

The first thing you should try is to see how much dirt you can get off with just some water pressure. This will also soften the remaining splatter, making it easier to remove in the next steps.

 

  1. Oil substances

Simple household oils, like baby, lamp and cooking oil might also effectively get the job done. Apply one of the oils onto a soft cloth, rub it in circular motions on the stained areas and rinse the car after.

 

  1. Bug and tar remover

There are powerful formulas that quickly remove tough stains on exterior, without damaging the car’s paintwork. They come in spray and aerosol bottles, they’re easy to use and you can purchase them at hardware shops for an affordable price.

 

  1. Glass cleaner

Although common household glass cleaner might be too abrasive to be used on car paint, it’s a good solution for cleaning the windshield. Just mix it with a little bit of soap, spray it on bug splats and sap, let it sit for a while and then wipe it off with a wet towel.

 

  1. Bug removal sponge

A specialist removal sponge is another helpful tool that is designed to help you fight those adhesive stains without a hassle. The sponge is made of abrasive fabric, however it doesn’t leave any scratches on the surface.

 

  1. Dryer sheets

Dampen a dryer sheet with warm water and use it to wipe down the car. Make sure to thoroughly wash your car after using this method to ensure that the chemicals in the laundry product don’t damage the exterior of the car.

 

  1. Wax your car

To prevent your car being covered in splatter and stains in the future, apply wax to the paint. It not only gives your car a shiny appearance, but also creates a barrier that protects the vehicle’s body from contaminants, including insects and tree sap.

 

  1. Vinegar solution

Vinegar is another good option for cleaning the windshield, as its mildly acidic formula works well with eliminating all kinds of debris from glass surfaces.

 

You can find out more on keeping vehicles clean throughout the summer here.

 

 

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