Motorists celebrating England's World Cup match against Ghana tonight could be hit with fines of up to £1,000 for honking their horns, according to a driving expert. The warning comes as fans prepare for the 9pm kick-off, with authorities urging drivers to follow the rules of the road.
Horn Use Strictly Prohibited for Celebrations
Saul Turner, general manager at National Scrap Car, highlighted that beeping the horn to celebrate a goal or victory breaches Rule 112 of the Highway Code. The rule states that horns should only be used while the vehicle is moving to alert other road users of your presence and avoid potential dangers. Using a horn for any other purpose, such as celebrating a football win, can result in an unlimited fine and between three and eleven penalty points for dangerous driving.
Loud Music and Rowdy Passengers Could Lead to Unlimited Fines
Turner also warned against blasting songs like 'Three Lions' or 'Sweet Caroline' at high volume. According to Highway Code Rule 148, drivers must not be distracted by music or other noises that could mask emergency sirens or road hazards. Violating this rule could lead to an unlimited fine and three to nine penalty points for careless driving. "Save the loud celebrations for the pub garden or your living room, and keep the car volume low and non-distracting," Turner advised.
Similarly, rowdy passengers cheering, singing, or arguing can distract the driver. Rule 148 specifically warns against such distractions. If passenger behaviour causes loss of focus, drivers risk disqualification, an unlimited fine, and three to nine penalty points. Turner suggested pulling over safely until things calm down if passengers become too rowdy.
Parking Fines and Penalty Charge Notices
Parking illegally on match days can also prove costly. Rule 238 of the Highway Code prohibits parking or waiting on double yellow lines at any time, carrying an immediate Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of up to £70, or up to £130 in London. Drivers should avoid parking outside designated bays, rushing without paying meters, or parking in cycle lanes. "Don't let a good game end with a vehicle recovery trip; allow plenty of time before kick-off to find legal street parking or use a designated car park," Turner said.
Mobile Phone Use While Driving Carries £1,000 Fine
Checking the match score on a mobile phone while driving, even in stationary traffic, is illegal under Rule 149 of the Highway Code. This offence carries a £1,000 fine and six penalty points. Even if the phone is mounted in a hands-free cradle, typing or looking at the screen can result in a £1,000 fine and three points. Turner advised waiting until safely parked to catch up on the action.
Post-Match Adrenaline and Emotional Driving
Turner also cautioned against letting emotions from the match affect driving. Highway Code Rule 147 states that drivers must not become agitated or involved if others are behaving badly on the road. Reacting to emotional drivers—such as those honking, singing, or tailgating—could lead to an unlimited fine and disqualification for dangerous driving. "If you encounter an emotional driver, pull over safely, take a breath, and refuse to engage or slow down to let them pass," he advised.
