Drivers at risk on Wednesday due to simple New Year’s rule

Drivers may be hit with fines and penalty points on their driving licence for a major error this New Year's Eve.

13:18, Mon, Dec 29, 2025 Updated: 13:18, Mon, Dec 29, 2025

Traffic stop, man and anxiety in car with police, search and frustrated for drunk driving or speeding at night. Travel, transport and driver in vehicl

Motorists may be at risk this New Year's Eve (Image: Getty)

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

Motorists could be at risk of being slapped with a hefty fine due to a little-known New Year's firework policy. WeBuyAnyCar has warned road users must ensure that debris from fireworks does not settle on their car windows or mirrors. 

Any debris from the fireworks can seriously impair road users' vision of the road, which is against the rules. Last year, motorists were urged to keep their vehicles well away from fireworks displays, with a campaign recommending that road users stop at a distance of at least 100m x 50m from displays. 

Rear View Of Man Looking At Illuminated Fireworks Against Sky At Dusk

Fireworks and drink driving could cause issues for road users (Image: Getty)

WeBuyAnyCar explained: “British drivers have a legal requirement to make sure that their vehicle is safe to drive at all times, therefore it is up to drivers to take precautions around New Year’s to protect their windscreens from any debris.”

According to WeBuyAnyCar, figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) suggest that 3.3 million adults host their own fireworks events in the UK. It means individuals who believe they are keeping their cars a safe distance from public displays could still be affected. 

Failure to comply with the legal requirement to keep vehicles safe for driving can result in road users being hit with a £1,000 fine. Transporting fireworks in the back of a vehicle on the way to displays is also a risk in another potential blow.

Not transporting fireworks properly can hit drivers with a £300 fine and up to six penalty points on their driving licence. Experts warn that road users must also consult their insurance providers before driving with over 56kg of fireworks. 

However, motorists could also be caught out if they are heading to the pub or out for drinks with friends or family on New Year’s Eve.

Motoring news and advice plus selected offers and competitions Invalid email

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

WeBuyAnyCar added: “In addition to fireworks-related advice, drivers are being reminded to refrain from drinking this New Year’s Eve if they plan on getting behind the wheel at all. 

“Beyond being a safety hazard, drink driving comes with a hefty fine and can result in jail time. You will be served with a fine of up to £2,500 for being in charge of a vehicle when over the legal limit, along with a potential driving ban.”