Idling drivers risk breaking vehicle emissions laws
Drivers could be fined £110 for breaking vehicle emissions laws if they let their cars idle with the air conditioning on.
With temperatures soaring this week, the motorists could be tempted to cool their cars before they get in them. However, the RAC has reminded drivers that they could be committing emissions offences if they leave car engines running whether they are in the vehicle or not.
The standard penalty for engine idling is a fixed penalty notice of £40 from a police officer or a penalty charge notice of £80 from a civil enforcement officer.
However, some councils in London have imposed fines of up to £110.
Pollution
RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: “Air conditioning is a game-changer in modern vehicles, making otherwise uncomfortable journeys by road a genuinely pleasant experience. We even advise those driving vehicles without air-con to consider delaying any non-essential trips this week until the heatwave passes.
“But while we’re all desperate to stay cool, just sitting in the car with the engine and air conditioning running and going nowhere isn’t advisable. Due to the air pollution this causes, you risk a fine from a police or civil enforcement officer.”
