With the Easter weekend fast approaching, many Brits will be planning time on the road. But drivers could face fines of up to £5,600 this Easter weekend if they overlook key Highway Code rules.
The RAC estimates nearly 21 million journeys will take place, making this one of the busiest Easter periods on record. With more cars on the road, enforcement is likely to increase, and small mistakes can quickly lead to costly penalties.
Nationwide Vehicle Contracts highlights five lesser-known offences to watch this Easter may be breaking the highway code this Easter, and the fines it could cost them.
Driver fatigue is a serious risk, particularly on long motorway journeys or late-night return trips. Studies estimate that tiredness contributes to 10 to 20% of all road collisions.
Rule 91 of the Highway Code states you must not “not begin a journey if you are tired” and should ensure you get “sufficient sleep before embarking on a long journey”.
If fatigue leads to dangerous driving, penalties can be severe. Those convicted of dangerous driving can face an unlimited fine, a driving ban, and, in the most serious cases, up to 14 years in prison.
Packing for a weekend away can quickly push your car beyond its limits. Exceeding your car’s recommended load capacity can make the vehicle more difficult to control, increase fuel consumption, and place strain on the tyres and suspension, potentially increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Rule 98 of the Highway Code states drivers must not overload their vehicle. Failing to comply with the manufacturer’s limits could result in a fine of up to £300 and three penalty points. In serious cases, such as if an accident occurs, it can also invalidate your insurance.
Travelling with pets is common over bank holidays, but failing to secure them properly can be costly.
Rule 57 of the Highway Code requires pets to be safely restrained so they cannot distract the driver or injure themselves or others during an emergency stop.
Suitable options include seat belt harnesses, pet carriers, dog cages, and dog guards. The right choice depends on the animal and journey length, so owners should test a few versions to make sure their pet is happy, comfortable and secure for long journeys.
If an unsecured pet leads to careless driving, fines can reach up to £5,000.
Travelling to new places and using your sat-nav or phone navigation to help guide you is common, but it’s important to ensure the devices are fixed in an appropriate manner.
Rule 149 of the Highway Code makes it illegal to hold and use any handheld device (phone, sat-nav, tablet) while driving or in traffic. Devices must be in a secure holder and must not block your view.
If you are caught using a handheld device, you can receive a £200 fine and six penalty points.
While eating and drinking behind the wheel isn’t illegal on its own, it can easily distract drivers and reduce their control of the vehicle. Taking a hand off the wheel or diverting attention, even briefly, increases the risk of accidents, particularly during busy travel periods like Easter.
Rule 148 of the Highway Code states drivers should avoid distractions to maintain concentration. This can include other things like trying to read maps and starting or adjusting any music or radio.
If this behaviour affects your control of the vehicle, you could face a fine of up to £100.
“As millions of drivers take to the roads this Easter, traffic levels will be high and enforcement is likely to increase. Many fines come from simple oversights such as driving while tired, overloading the car, or failing to secure pets. A small amount of preparation can help you avoid penalties and keep your journey safe.”
Before you set off this Easter, check:
- You are well rested before long journeys
- Your vehicle is not overloaded
- Pets are properly secured
- Your sat nav is set up and fixed in place
- You have planned regular breaks
A few simple checks can reduce risk, improve safety, and help you avoid unnecessary fines.
For more driving advice, visit our Motoring Guides hub.
Originally posted: 3rd April 2026
