Drivers warned over common engine mistake that could invalidate insurance

dailyrecord.co.uk:

With many parts of Scotland experiencing snowy and icy conditions, motorists are being warned to remain cautious and plan ahead.And while it is important to adapt for winter conditions, some common winter hacks could land you in a spot of trouble with the law.For example, turning your car on to heat it up while you go about your morning routine could see you fined and invalidated on insurance.

Lorna Connelly, Head of Claims at Admiral Insurance, explains: "A snow and ice weather warning will see additional challenges for motorists. "We’ve all been there – rushing to start our journey and then finding that our car is frozen over so we blast the heating in the car while we run around trying to find the de-icer or ice scraper."But whatever you do, never abandon your car with the engine running and keys in the ignition. "Stationary idling is an offence under section 42 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and could leave you with a £20 fine and could even invalidate your insurance if an opportunistic car thief makes off with your vehicle."Adding further advice, Lorna said: "If you’re manually removing any ice, don’t risk using boiling water or scrape the ice off using your bank card.

Boiling water can crack your windscreen which could cause your car to fail its MOT if it’s within your eyeline."It comes as Scotland faces days of wintery weather.

Last night the year's coldest temperatures were recorded with Kinbrace in the Highlands dropping to -15.2C.There are two Met Office Yellow warnings in place, one for snow and ice in the Highlands and Islands that begins at 6pm tonight and lasts until 10am on Thursday.