Motorists Alerted to Highway Code Horn Rules to Avoid Penalties

Motorists are advised to pay attention to a less frequently recognized rule within the Highway Code concerning the use of their car horn, as violations could lead to a penalty charge notice (PCN). Specifically, Rule 112 states that a horn should only be used when the vehicle is in motion and a warning needs to be communicated to other road users.

Importantly, the rule prohibits the use of the horn while the vehicle is parked or stationary, which means drivers who honk while caught in traffic or signaling their arrival by sounding the horn could find themselves in breach of these regulations. This restriction applies even to instances of honking on private property, such as a personal driveway.

Additionally, the Highway Code advises against aggressive honking and lays out restrictions for use in built-up areas during late-night hours, specifically between 11:30 PM and 7 AM. Nonetheless, an important exception exists in cases where another road user may be in danger, permitting horn use even when stationary or during early morning hours for safety-related warnings.