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Motorists can be fined £1,000 for blasting music with swear words while driving

Drivers are warned to be mindful as the weather gets warmer.

Emily Sergeant - 17th April 2025

Did you know that blasting explicit music while driving could land you with a hefty fine?

No, neither did we… but it turns out that it’s completely true, as motoring experts are warning drivers to be mindful of the rules when it comes to playing high-volume music from their cars with the windows down – especially if the tunes you choose to proudly play for all to hear contain swear words or inappropriate language.

Now that we’ve had a taste of the warmer weather, and summer is really not that far away, driving with the windows rolled down is common to let a breeze flow through.

But this simple action could cost you.

“There isn’t a specific offence for playing music with swearing or explicit lyrics in the comfort of your own vehicle, however context does matter,” explains Graham Conway, who is the Managing Director of Select Car Leasing.

“For example, if you’re playing music containing swear words in a public place, such as while stopped in traffic, driving past a school, or through a busy pedestrian area, and someone nearby feels alarmed, distressed, or harassed, then you could be committing a Section 5 offence of the Public Order Act of 1986.”

The maximum penalty for this type of offence is a fine of up to £1,000, and even a possible prosecution.

Graham added: “While it’s relatively rare, it can happen in more serious or repeated cases where members of the public have raised concerns.”

As well as fines being issued by police, local authorities also have the power to control noise from loud cars if they’re parked in the street or on private property, as an Abatement Notice can be served under Section 80 of the Environmental Protection Act, and unfortunately, fines for this can rise up to £5,000 if the case is taken to court. 

“Excessively loud music isn’t just a nuisance, it also poses a significant safety risk,” Graham continued.

“It’s crucial that drivers can hear important road sounds, such as emergency vehicle sirens, car horns, and other audio clues that warn of potential hazards, but with your music blaring, you might miss those vital audible signs. 

“Being able to respond quickly to changing circumstances is a key part of staying safe on the road.”

Read more:

• Drivers could be fined for using common ‘thank you gestures’ on UK roads
• Scientists discover ‘world’s most relaxing song’ – but warn not to listen to it while driving
• Study reveals the age group most likely to have points on their driving licence

Certain police forces have also been trialling the use of noise-detecting cameras, which use microphones, cameras, and number plate recognition technology to identify vehicles emitting noise above a certain decibel limit – with immediate £100 fines if caught.

Featured Image – Darwin Vegher (via Unsplash)