5 common driving myths

No matter how long you’ve been driving, it’s likely you’ve picked up bits of advice along the way, from friends, family, instructors or even other drivers on the road. Some of it is genuinely useful. Some of it is outdated, misunderstood or simply untrue.

Driving myths tend to stick around because they’re often repeated with confidence. But believing them can sometimes lead to confusion, bad habits or unexpected run-ins with the law.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at 5 common driving myths in the UK, and what the reality actually is. Then we answer quick-fire questions, from driving barefoot to sleeping in your car.

Myth 1: You’re allowed 10% over the speed limit

This is one of the most common driving myths in the UK. Many drivers believe that it’s acceptable to drive at 10% plus 2mph over the speed limit without facing consequences.

This idea comes from guidance issued by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), which recommends that officers may use discretion when enforcing speed limits, often starting enforcement at 10% plus 2mph. However, this is guidance, not law, and it doesn’t apply automatically in every situation.

Police forces can choose how they enforce speed limits, and speed cameras don’t necessarily follow the same thresholds. In other words, you can still be caught doing 32mph in a 30 zone.

The truth: The speed limit is the legal maximum. You can be fined or receive penalty points for exceeding it, even by a small amount. Check our guide to UK national speed limits, and read about speed awareness courses if you’ve been caught.

Myth 2: You must always drive at the speed limit

Some drivers believe that driving below the speed limit is illegal, while others assume it’s always fine, no matter how slowly they’re going.

In the UK, speed limits set the maximum speed for a road, not a required minimum. There’s no national blanket minimum speed limit. However, driving unreasonably slowly can still be an issue.

Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, driving too slowly may be classed as careless or inconsiderate driving if it falls below the standard expected of a competent driver. This includes driving without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for other road users.

This usually applies where slow driving causes congestion, disrupts traffic flow, or prompts other drivers to make risky manoeuvres, such as sudden overtaking, increasing the risk of collisions.

The truth: Driving below the speed limit is legal when conditions call for it, but driving unreasonably slowly without good reason can be considered careless or inconsiderate.

Myth 3: Hands-free phone use is always legal

Most drivers are aware that using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal. However, many assume that hands-free use is completely risk-free from a legal point of view.

While hands-free devices are permitted, they’re not a free pass. If you’re distracted, whether that’s by a phone call, voice commands, or interacting with a mounted device, and not in proper control of your vehicle, you could still be stopped.

This also applies to things like scrolling through playlists or navigating menus while driving. Set your sat nav route before you set off, and pull over somewhere safe if you need to change it.

The truth: Hands-free use is only acceptable if it doesn’t distract you or affect your control of the vehicle. Our guide to Highway Code traps covers the phone rules in more detail.

Myth 4: Learner drivers can’t get penalty points

There’s a common misconception that penalty points only apply once you’ve passed your driving test.

In reality, learner drivers are subject to the same road traffic laws as everyone else. That means offences such as speeding, dangerous driving, or using a mobile phone can result in penalty points, fines or even a driving ban.

Any points gained as a learner remain on your driving record. If you reach 6 or more points within 2 years of passing your test, your licence can be revoked, meaning you’d need to reapply and retake your tests.

The truth: Learner drivers can receive penalty points on a provisional licence, and those points still count after you pass.

Myth 5: Fully comprehensive insurance always costs more

It’s often assumed that fully comprehensive insurance is automatically more expensive than third-party or third-party, fire and theft cover.

In reality, insurance pricing is based on risk rather than just the level of cover. Some insurers view drivers who choose fully comprehensive cover as lower risk, which can sometimes make it the less expensive option.

The cost can also depend on factors such as how long you need cover for, how often you drive, and your individual circumstances.

The truth: Fully comprehensive insurance isn’t always the most expensive option and can sometimes offer better overall value.

More driving myths, answered

These are the quick-fire questions we hear most often.

Is it illegal to drive barefoot or in flip-flops?

No, but you must be able to use the pedals safely. If your footwear, or lack of it, affects your control, you could be charged with careless driving.

Is it illegal to eat or drink while driving?

Not in itself. But if it means you’re not in proper control of the car, you could be charged with careless driving.

Can you drive with your dog in the car?

Yes, if your dog or any other pet is restrained. Rule 57 of the Highway Code suggests a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard, so they can’t distract you or be hurt if you stop quickly.

Is it illegal to drive in sunglasses?

No, and in bright sun they can help. But very dark category 4 lenses, which let through only 3% to 8% of light, aren’t suitable for driving.

Is it illegal to splash pedestrians?

It can be. Soaking people on the pavement can count as driving without reasonable consideration for others, which could mean a fine and penalty points.

Is it illegal to drive with the interior light on?

No, but if police think it’s affecting your driving, they can ask you to turn it off.

Can you drive other cars on your own insurance?

Not usually. Some policies include ‘driving other cars’ cover, but many don’t, and where it’s included it’s often third party only. Check your policy first, or look at temporary car insurance. Our guide to driving without insurance explains the risks.

Does a speed camera always flash?

No. Many cameras use infrared and give no visible sign, so the only reliable way to avoid a speeding fine is to stick to the limit.

Is coasting illegal?

Coasting, rolling along with the clutch down or in neutral, isn’t illegal in itself. But it reduces your control, and it could count against you if you have an accident.

Can you be fined for running out of fuel on the motorway?

It isn’t an offence on its own, but stopping on a motorway is dangerous and police could fine you if it was avoidable. Read what to do if you break down on the motorway.

Is it illegal to drive with a broken wing mirror?

It depends which one. You can drive without a passenger-side mirror if you have a driver’s side mirror and a clear view through your interior mirror. If your rear view is blocked, you need both wing mirrors.

Is it illegal to sleep in your car?

Not if you’re legally parked somewhere safe and not over the drink or drug driving limit. You can’t stop on a motorway hard shoulder for a nap, so wait for the next services.

Can you wear headphones while driving?

There’s no specific law against it, but they can stop you hearing horns and sirens, and you could be charged with careless driving. Use the car’s Bluetooth instead.

Is it illegal to drive with no screenwash?

Keeping your car roadworthy is your responsibility, and that includes washers that work. If your view is obstructed, you could be fined. Our car maintenance checklist can help.

Separating fact from fiction

Driving myths are easy to pick up and hard to shake, especially when they’re repeated often enough. But road laws and driving expectations aren’t always as simple as they seem.

Whether you drive every day or only occasionally, staying informed helps you make safer decisions and avoid unpleasant surprises. When in doubt, checking the Highway Code or official guidance is always better than relying on hearsay.

Ready to put the myths to bed? Need temporary car insurance for a quick trip, or learner driver insurance while you practise? Get a price in minutes.