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UK Drivers Reminded That Splashing Pedestrians Is an Offence Carrying Points and Fines

The law treats soaking someone from a roadside puddle as inconsiderate driving, carrying fixed penalties with rare maximum fines in court.

Overview

  • Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, splashing a pedestrian can be prosecuted as driving without reasonable consideration.
  • The RAC says typical enforcement is a £100 fixed penalty notice plus three licence points.
  • Cases that go to magistrates can attract fines up to £5,000, though coverage notes the maximum is uncommon and linked to aggravating circumstances or refusal of a fixed penalty.
  • A Driving Test Success TikTok video showing a car slowing and giving a wide berth to a puddle has renewed attention to the rule during recent wet weather.
  • Viewers reported surprise at the rule and shared anecdotes of police action after filmed incidents of drivers drenching pedestrians.