Motorists could face a £100 fine and penalty points if they fail to follow an important rule many don’t even realize exists. Experts warn that thousands of drivers may be unknowingly breaking this regulation every year.

The issue relates to Rule 274 of the Highway Code, which outlines what drivers should do if their vehicle breaks down. The rule emphasizes safety and visibility, underscoring the importance of being clearly visible to other road users in potentially dangerous situations.

According to official guidance, drivers are expected to wear light-coloured or high-visibility clothing when outside their vehicle. In daylight, bright or pale clothing is recommended, while reflective gear should be worn at night or during poor visibility. Ignoring this advice—especially on high-speed routes like smart motorways—can lead to fines and points on a driving license under road traffic laws.

Vehicle breakdowns are a common occurrence across the UK. In 2024 alone, there were more than 280,000 incidents recorded on England’s motorways, with many more on major A-roads and millions of roadside assistance call-outs each year. This highlights just how many drivers could be putting themselves at risk without even realizing it.

In addition to wearing visible clothing, the Highway Code advises several other safety steps. Drivers should switch on their hazard lights, move their vehicle off the road if possible, and place a warning triangle at least 45 meters behind the car when on non-motorway roads. These actions help alert approaching traffic and reduce the likelihood of accidents.

For motorway breakdowns, the guidance is even stricter. Drivers are urged to exit their vehicles safely and wait away from traffic, ideally behind a crash barrier. High-visibility clothing is strongly recommended to ensure they remain clearly visible. Attempting repairs on a live carriageway is considered extremely dangerous, and professional help should always be contacted instead.

With the growing use of smart motorways and increasingly busy roads, following these breakdown procedures is more important than ever. Failing to do so doesn’t just risk a financial penalty—it could also put lives in danger.