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UK drivers warned that common ‘kindness’ gestures could land them with £1,000 fines

Emily Sergeant - 17th February 2025

Motorists are being warned that some common kindness gestures could actually see them hit with a hefty fine or points of their license.

Given that us Brits are known for our manners, it’s become common practice for drivers to use a number of popular gestures to say ‘thank you’ to our fellow road users when they give way to us, let us out of a junction or into a lane, or just generally do something to help us out on the road.

A quick wave, thumbs up, or flash of the headlights or hazards takes just a second to do, but the kindness goes a long way and helps keep the peace.

In fact, when another driver doesn’t say thank you, we actually tend to think it’s pretty rude.

But did you know that some of these gestures are actually in breach of the Highway Code and could end up seeing us have to fork out money if we’re caught in the act? Fines can rack up as high as £1,000, and in some cases are even ‘unlimited’.

According to a new survey from the car insurance team at Compare the Market, nearly two-thirds of UK drivers are unaware that waving to say thank you is illegal and that this act of courtesy could result in a £1,000 fine or three points on your licence, due to not having ‘proper control’ of the vehicle.

Surprisingly, 60% of motorists admit they would still wave to show gratitude despite this.

Similarly, just under half of drivers are unaware that flashing their lights to warn other drivers about upcoming police speed cameras is illegal, but 65% admitted they would continue despite the risk.

An unlimited fine and up to nine penalty points on your license may be imposed if you are taken to court for careless or inconsiderate driving.

Rule 110 of the Highway Code states that we should “only flash headlights to let other road users know that you are there”, and we should not do not flash them to “convey any other message or intimidate other road users”.

Rule 116 of the Highway code states that “you must not use hazard warning lights while driving or being towed unless you are on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway and you need to warn drivers behind you of a hazard or obstruction ahead.”

Read more:

• Two Greater Manchester postcodes revealed as being hotspots for uninsured drivers
• New ‘B Plates’ introduced so drivers can identify themselves as being bad at parking
• Digital driving licences will be introduced across the UK later this year

And then rule 160 states that, once moving a vehicle, you should “drive or ride with both hands on the wheel or handlebars where possible as this will help you to remain in full control of the vehicle at all times”.

So, long story short, keep being kind… but it could cost you.

Featured Image – pxfuel