Stay Cool in the Car This Summer to Avoid Hefty Fines

Under rule 237 in the Highway Code, drivers should keep their vehicles fully ventilated to avoid drowsiness and danger behind the wheel. 

If caught and charged with dangerous driving, motorists could face two years in prison, unlimited fines and have their licence revoked.

Anyone getting behind the wheel this summer must have a fully ventilated vehicle. However, with the ever-increasing cost-of-living crisis, running the AC for the entire trip is not an option for many motorists.

Fuel usage can be increased by 10% by switching on the air-con even for short journeys.

Internal temperatures of cars can reach dangerous levels – studies have measured vehicles going over 50°C, even on a more relaxed summer day.

Yet with the rise of petrol prices in the UK, many drivers are reluctant to turn on their air-con, opting to save fuel and money.

However, there are several other ways drivers can keep cool this summer without switching on the air con.

Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, said: “It’s essential to ensure the car is fully ventilated throughout hot journeys or risk going against guidance from the Highway Code – putting drivers in danger of drowsiness behind the wheel and risking hefty penalties.

“For those with cars that do not have air-con, or if they want to save fuel by not switching the cold air on, there are several cost-effective ways to ventilate the vehicle and stay cool in the car as temperatures continue to soar.

“Drivers can buy relatively inexpensive solar-powered fans to attach to the inside of vehicles or reflective screens to line the windscreen, keeping the heat out and reducing the temperature in the car before they set off.

“Drivers can also freeze water bottles to use as ice packs and to help them stay hydrated with the ice-cold water when they melt, or hang damp cloths over the vents to cool down the air.

“If motorists are hiring a car or buying a new one, the car’s colour can make a difference too. White cars reflect the heat and tend to cool down quicker than cars of a darker colour, so worth bearing in mind.”

Here are Quotezone.co.uk’s tips on keeping calm and making savings this summer:

1. Invest in Some Cooling Accessories

Drivers can purchase inexpensive items such as pocket-sized fans to attach to their dashboards to stay calm and help ward off drowsiness. Sunshades can be bought to reflect the sun’s rays to reduce the vehicle’s interior temperature. It’ll also reduce the dashboard temperature and steering wheel by blocking out the hot sun – both accessories can generally be found for under £10.

2. Choose Your Spot Wisely

Watching where motorists park will help to stop the car’s interior from getting too hot throughout the day. Leave your vehicle underneath trees and overhanging bushes, or find a large van or lorry to park beside.

3. Utilise What You Have

Draping a damp cloth over the vent makes the air blowing much cooler. Remember to take the rags out of your car afterwards to prevent mildew from building up. Leave the windows open if you’ve parked up for a summer picnic or doing some jobs in your front garden where you can keep an eye on your car.

4. White Is Suitable for Keeping Cool

If you’re buying a new car or hiring one on holiday, the colour can play a part in helping to keep the car cool. White cars reflect the heat and can cool down quicker. Lighter-coloured seat covers can also help.

5. Keep Yourself Calm and Hydrated

Pop a water bottle in the freezer overnight, and in the morning, wrap it up in a towel to stop any drips – it will help you keep calm, and drivers will have ice-cold water to drink once melted. Staying hydrated is vital on long hot journeys. Dehydration can cause drowsiness – which is dangerous behind the wheel.

6. Plan Ahead and Take a Break

If possible, plan ahead and avoid the hottest parts of the day, generally between 1-3 pm. If the trip can be made early or late in the day, it’s best to do so and play it safe. Also, don’t drive for more than 2 hours without taking a 15-minute recharge, as Rule 91 of the Highway Code recommends.

For breakdown cover or to compare car insurance prices, Quotezone.co.uk can help.