UK drivers have been warned of a strict rule prohibiting the use of car horns during nighttime hours, with offenders facing fines of up to £1,000 or penalty points on their licence. The regulation, outlined in the Highway Code, aims to reduce anti-social noise and prevent unnecessary disturbance to residents.
What the Law Says
According to Section 112 of the Highway Code, motorists must only use their horn while the vehicle is moving and to warn other road users of their presence. Aggressive sounding is strictly forbidden. Crucially, drivers are banned from using the horn while stationary on a road or when driving in a built-up area between 11:30pm and 7am, except when another road user poses a danger.
This rule is legally enforceable across England, Scotland, and Wales under Regulation 99 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986. In Northern Ireland, it is enforced under Regulation 114 of the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1999.
Penalties for Violation
Police officers can issue non-endorsable fixed penalty notices (FPN) of £30 for these offences. If challenged in court and magistrates agree with the police, the penalty can rise to up to £1,000. Legal experts at Footman James note that drivers caught almost exclusively face fines if witnessed by police.
Other Common Mistakes
Drivers also often misuse headlights. Flashing headlights to thank another driver or warn of police speed traps violates Code 110, which states that headlights should only be used to let others know you are there, not to convey other messages or intimidate.
With 305 rules in the Highway Code, many motorists forget some over time, but ignorance is no legal defence. Authorities urge all drivers to refresh their knowledge regularly to avoid costly penalties.
