A Christmas party outfit could land drivers with a hefty £5,000 fine if they wear one while on the roads this year.
Distracting bulges and awkward footwear could make you a dangerous driver by disrupting your ability to navigate the road.
This very sensible warning is only too relevant this year as internet searches for 'Christmas outfit' hit sleigh-high with a 1,280% increase in the past 12 weeks.
Advert
National Tyres and Autocare marketing director Michael Bourne told The Sun: "Driving in outfits that impact your driving ability could cause an accident.
"Any piece of clothing that impairs your vision or prevents you from using the car's controls, could lead to a £5k fine and potentially three points on your licence."
While the law never bans drivers from fancy dress, the experts warn against it.
Advert
The law does state that lacking proper control of a vehicle could lead to a £5k fine, discretionary disqualification, and nine points from your licence.
But you're not only up against a hefty fine, you may also be putting your own life in danger.
Alcohol consumption in the UK rises by over 40% during December.
An inflexible Santa outfit may cost you the seconds it would take to swerve away from another boozed-up driver.
Advert
Failure to wear the correct footwear behind the wheel is, in fact, a breach of the Highway Code's Rule 97.
The code states: "You should ensure clothing and footwear do not prevent you using the controls in any manner."
Disobeying this rule could be classed as driving without due care and attention.
Advert
Keep your shoes on for now, because you might have to take care of your outfit first.
Inflatable costumes are popular until they disrupt your ability to handle a vehicle and get you into a car crash.
Crazy costumes with sparkles, mirrors, and other accessories can also distract other drivers.
Even steering with a Santa outfit can be classed as an inconsiderate way to drive.
Advert
Michael suggested avoiding the situation altogether.
He said: "We recommend making sure your outfit doesn't impact your driving ability as well as others, and if it does, take your outfit to the venue and then get changed there."
But wait, you may want to hark the herald of this final warning before clicking away.
As well as outfits, vehicle decorations can also deck your bank account with hefty fines or lead to a ban.
Featured Image Credit: Alamy