DRIVERS could face a colossal £5,000 fine if they splash pedestrians whilst driving through puddles.

With a downpour of wet weather this month, motorists are being urged to take extra caution when driving through puddles, to avoid splashing pedestrians on the side of the road.

Whilst it may often seem unavoidable, a new survey from Uswitch reveals that one in three drivers risk a fine of up to £5,000 after admitting they’ve drenched someone walking on the pavement.

Here is all you need to know about the law and how to avoid a fine.

What does the law state?

Under section three of the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is illegal to splash someone as it amounts to driving “without reasonable consideration for other persons.”

Those found guilty of deliberately driving through puddles and splashing pedestrians will likely be hit with a £100 fixed penalty notice and three penalty points if caught by police.

However, if motorists are thought to be driving in a manner that “amounts to a clear act of incompetence, selfishness, impatience, and aggressiveness” then the maximum fine of £5,000 could be issued.

Alongside this, if drivers fail to pay the £100 fixed penalty, they could also face the maximum £5,000 fine if the case is taken to court.

Convicted drivers could then see a huge increase in their car insurance premiums.

Uswitch car insurance expert, Florence Codjoe, said: “Deliberately splashing a pedestrian with a puddle is a criminal offence and is not acceptable in the eyes of the law. Not only could you face a fine and penalty points, if convicted you’ll likely see your car insurance premiums increase.

“It’s always important to take extra caution when driving in wet weather and slow down when you see a pedestrian walking by.”