Many of us when carrying wardrobes, curtain rails, bed frames or even small sofas will have traveled with our boot open. But is it illegal and can you be fined for doing it? Here’s your answer…
Driving with your boot open is not illegal – so long as you have a legitimate reason to travel with it open and you have taken precautions.
If you are driving with your boot open, you must make sure nothing is protruding more than 6 inches to the side or three feet to the rear of the outline of the car.
Anything that goes beyond these dimensions is classed as an “abnormal load” - and is therefore illegal.
You also must take care that your lights and license plate are fully visible while your boot is open, this may require you to fix an additional plate to the rear of your car.
It is against the law to drive with your boot open without a justifiable reason, but why would you do that?
Fines for getting it wrong are typically limited at £100 although you could end up with three points on your licence too if you break the rules.
