Motorists across the UK are being alerted to a potential driving hazard that could see them facing a substantial fine of up to £2,500 this November. The issue stems from condensation building up inside vehicles as winter temperatures plummet.
The £2,500 Highway Code Risk
Car specialists from the website LeaseLoco.com have issued a stark warning to drivers. According to their experts, driving with foggy windows constitutes a significant safety risk and may violate rule 229 of the Highway Code.
Failure to properly clear condensation before starting a journey could be deemed as driving without a clear view of the road. This offence can lead to a hefty financial penalty of up to £2,500 and the addition of three penalty points on a driver's licence.
A Simple Kitchen Staple Solution
John Wilmot, the CEO of the car leasing company LeaseLoco.com, has proposed a surprisingly simple and cost-effective solution. He suggests using table salt, a natural dehumidifier, to combat the problem.
"Condensation in cars can be frustrating because you have to waste time wiping windows and putting on the AC or cracking open a window before you can set off," said Wilmot. "Placing a small bowl of salt in your car overnight is a clever way to help with this problem as it absorbs any excess moisture in the air."
The method is straightforward: leaving a small bowl of salt inside the vehicle overnight allows it to draw excess moisture from the air. This reduces the humidity that leads to condensation forming when the warm air inside the car meets the cold glass of the windows in the morning.
Understanding and Addressing Persistent Condensation
Condensation typically forms in vehicles when exterior temperatures drop, chilling the car's windows. When the warmer, more humid air from inside the vehicle's cabin comes into contact with the cold glass, moisture condenses.
While this is a common occurrence during colder months, the experts at LeaseLoco caution that it can be worsened by leaving damp items like wet coats or umbrellas inside the car. They also note that while condensation is normal in winter, if the problem persists in warmer weather, it could indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires professional attention.
This simple salt trick offers drivers a practical way to save time on frosty mornings and, more importantly, to ensure they are driving safely and within the law.
