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 Some of it is outdated, misunderstood or simply untrue.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 five common driving myths in the UK – and what the reality actually is.
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.
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.
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.
The truth: Hands-free use is only acceptable if it doesn’t distract you or affect your control of the vehicle.
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 six or more points within two 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, 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 cheaper 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.
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.
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