Motorists have been urged to pack a driving item that costs as little as £3.95 or risk a £100 fine under a lesser-known rule. With the arrival of summer temperatures, more drivers are planning day trips and holidays. But they have been warned not to overlook a simple car check as temperatures rise.
Screen Wash Importance in Summer
Screen wash is often associated with winter driving, but Paul Gorry, a vehicle expert at luxury motorhome manufacturer Auto-Trail, says it becomes just as important during late spring and summer. This is when bird droppings, insects, pollen, and tree sap can quickly build up on windscreens and reduce visibility.
Legal Consequences
Although there is no law requiring motorists to carry screen wash, drivers must still be able to maintain a clear view of the road. If police believe visibility has been affected, motorists could face penalties for careless driving, including a £100 fine and three penalty points. The Highway Code states that drivers must keep their vehicles roadworthy and maintain proper visibility while driving.
Paul said: "Bird droppings, squashed insects, pollen and tree sap can quickly smear across the glass, especially during long motorway journeys or when cars are parked outdoors for long periods."
"There is no specific offence for driving without screen wash, but motorists can still be penalised if they are unable to keep their windscreen clear while driving. If visibility becomes badly affected and police believe the driver is not in proper control of the vehicle, it could be treated as careless driving, which may lead to a £100 fine and three penalty points."
Summer Screen Wash Tips
Some drivers simply top up with water during warmer weather, but this is often not enough to remove stubborn marks like bird droppings or insect residue. A proper summer screen wash breaks down grime much more effectively, which helps drivers avoid smearing dirt across the windscreen when using the wipers.
Drivers should still be checking screen wash levels regularly throughout summer, particularly before long journeys or weekends away. "Many motorists are surprised by how quickly they use screen wash during warmer months once insects and dust start building up on the windscreen," Paul added.
