What Running Out of Petrol Means for You & Your Licence
By Blind Spot DriveBlog
What Running Out of Petrol Means for You & Your Licence
What Running Out of Petrol Means for You & Your Licence
Learn what to expect legally if your fuel tank runs dry on a road or motorway.
Outline
- Introduction
- Importance of knowing the consequences of running out of petrol
- Recent petrol shortages and their impact on drivers
- How Common is Running Out of Fuel?
- Statistics on drivers stranded without fuel
- Increased incidents during petrol shortages
- Why Technology Isn’t Always Reliable
- Limitations of fuel indicators and warning lights
- How hills and other factors can disrupt fuel estimates
- Risks of Letting Fuel Levels Run Low
- Effects on your car’s mechanics
- The impact on diesel and older vehicles
- Legal Implications of Running Out of Petrol
- Motorways Traffic (England and Wales) Regulations
- Definition of a roadside obstruction
- Consequences of Causing Obstruction on the Road
- Potential fines and penalty points
- Legal escalation if an accident occurs
- Insurance Implications of Running Out of Fuel
- Possible lack of coverage in accident scenarios
- Financial consequences for repairs and other claims
- Recognizing the Signs of Low Fuel
- Common symptoms as fuel runs low
- When to pull over safely
- Safety Protocols When Running Out of Fuel
- Actions to take when stranded
- Importance of hazard lights and warning triangles
- Who to Call for Help
- Role of breakdown services
- Emergency services in dangerous situations
- Why Experts Advise Against Risking Low Fuel on Motorways
- Safety statistics and expert opinions
- Risks associated with motorway breakdowns
- Tips to Avoid Running Out of Fuel
- Planning refueling stops
- Regular fuel checks
- The Impact of Panic Buying on Fuel Availability
- How public behavior affects fuel supplies
- Advice for mindful fuel usage
- The Importance of Responsible Fuel Management
- Safety for yourself and other road users
- Legal implications for your driving record
- Conclusion
- Summary of key takeaways
- Final safety reminder
- FAQs
What Running Out of Petrol Means for You & Your Licence
Introduction
Running out of petrol on the road may seem like a rare or avoidable occurrence, but it’s more common than you might think. With recent petrol shortages and increased pressure on fuel supplies, it’s crucial to understand the risks—both mechanical and legal—of running out of fuel. A lapse in planning can lead to inconvenient situations and even legal consequences. Here’s what you need to know to avoid any mishaps and to keep your licence safe.
How Common is Running Out of Fuel?
Many drivers think they can gauge their fuel levels accurately enough to avoid running dry. However, studies by Green Flag show that over 70,000 drivers each month end up stranded because they overestimate their remaining fuel. During times of petrol shortages, this figure is only likely to increase, as refueling opportunities may be limited and queues may deter timely top-ups.
Why Technology Isn’t Always Reliable
Modern vehicles often come with advanced fuel indicators, but relying on them can be risky. Typically, an orange warning light signals that only 10-15% of fuel remains. Some vehicles even display an estimated mileage until empty. However, these systems can be unreliable, especially when factors like hills or stop-and-go traffic throw off the readings. It’s best to top off your tank rather than pushing these estimates to the limit.
Risks of Letting Fuel Levels Run Low
Running out of fuel doesn’t only stop your car; it can actually cause damage, especially to older vehicles. Debris tends to collect at the bottom of a fuel tank, and when fuel is low, these particles can clog the fuel filters. Additionally, for diesel engines and older cars with carburetors, running out of petrol may introduce air into the system, requiring a costly bleed-out.
Legal Implications of Running Out of Petrol
In England and Wales, the Motorways Traffic Regulations permit drivers to pull over due to mechanical failure or lack of fuel. However, if a vehicle causes a hazard or obstruction, the driver can face penalties. Not only could you receive a fine, but you may also incur three penalty points on your licence for causing an obstruction.
Consequences of Causing Obstruction on the Road
Causing an obstruction due to running out of petrol is no small issue. In cases where this leads to an accident, the consequences escalate. Depending on the severity of the incident, you could be fined up to thousands of pounds, receive additional penalty points, and even face more severe charges. If injuries occur, legal repercussions increase further.
Insurance Implications of Running Out of Fuel
It’s essential to read the fine print in your insurance policy, as many insurers won’t cover damages that arise from driver negligence, which running out of fuel may fall under. If your car causes an accident due to low fuel, you might be liable for all associated repair costs, both for your car and any others involved.
Recognizing the Signs of Low Fuel
Knowing when you’re close to empty is essential. Your car might start to “sputter” or lose power intermittently as the tank runs dry. If you notice these signs, pull over safely and immediately. Avoid waiting until it’s too late, as finding a safe stopping point in heavy traffic or on a motorway can be challenging.
Safety Protocols When Running Out of Fuel
If you do find yourself stranded, safety is paramount. Once you pull over, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If you’re on a road rather than a motorway, place a warning triangle about 45 meters behind your car to signal your position. On motorways, remain in your vehicle if possible and contact help.
Who to Call for Help
Your first call should be to your breakdown service, as many providers offer emergency refueling. If your breakdown coverage doesn’t include fuel assistance, consider contacting a local provider. In cases where your car may be obstructing traffic dangerously, call the emergency services to notify them and help ensure everyone’s safety.
Why Experts Advise Against Risking Low Fuel on Motorways
Experts strongly advise against traveling on motorways with low fuel. Neil Greig, Director of Policy & Research at IAM RoadSmart, stresses that running out of petrol on a motorway increases the risk for everyone, as a breakdown in fast-moving traffic can lead to severe accidents. In fact, many fatalities on motorways involve stationary vehicles.
Tips to Avoid Running Out of Fuel
Planning your fuel stops is one of the best ways to avoid a roadside emergency. Make a habit of refueling once you reach a quarter of a tank. Checking fuel levels regularly, especially before long trips or motorway drives, can prevent most fuel-related breakdowns.
The Impact of Panic Buying on Fuel Availability
Recent fuel shortages due to panic buying and supply chain issues have led to more drivers facing empty tanks. While it’s natural to want to fill up, it’s important not to contribute to panic-driven shortages. Instead, fill up as needed and try to leave fuel for those who may need it urgently.
The Importance of Responsible Fuel Management
Managing your fuel isn’t just about avoiding a breakdown—it’s about keeping yourself and other road users safe. Ensuring a full tank before heading out minimizes the risk of breakdowns and reduces your likelihood of facing legal issues related to obstructions or accidents.
Conclusion
Running out of petrol might seem like a small inconvenience, but it carries significant risks, from fines and penalties to potential accidents and repair costs. Maintaining responsible fuel levels helps protect you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. Keep these tips in mind to stay prepared and stay safe.
FAQs
- Is it illegal to run out of petrol on the motorway?
Not exactly, but causing an obstruction can result in a fine and penalty points if your car becomes a hazard. - Will my insurance cover accidents due to running out of fuel?
Some policies may not cover this, as it can be seen as driver negligence. Check your policy details for clarification. - How can I tell if my car is running low on fuel?
Look for warning lights or an estimated range display, and monitor signs like sputtering as fuel runs out. - What should I do if I run out of petrol on a motorway?
Pull over safely, use your hazard lights, and contact your breakdown service. If your car poses a danger, call emergency services. - Why do fuel indicators sometimes give inaccurate readings?
Fuel estimates can be affected by factors like driving on hills, stop-and-go traffic, or inconsistent speeds, which affect consumption.Main image by https://www.theorytestpro.co.uk/posts/what-running-out-of-petrol-means-for-you-your-licence/
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