Could a hand gesture cost you £1,000?

Drivers are being warned that even the smallest acts of road rage could lead to severe penalties, with some offences costing up to £1,000.

Making rude hand gestures to other drivers could be classed as disorderly conduct if seen by the police, landing you with a substantial fine.

Disorderly conducts

Under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, acts such as sticking a middle finger up at another motorist could result in financial penalties up to three-quarters of a person’s weekly salary.

Drivers making rude hand gestures could also be fined for ‘not being in full control of a vehicle’ if their hands leave the wheel. This offence could lead to a maximum £1,000 fine and three penalty points if caught.

Jack Cousens, Head of Roads Policy for the AA, said: “A small minority of drivers think that being sat in their car exempts them from an offence like this.

“However, this kind of anti-social behaviour can land you in hot water and take you on an expensive trip to the courts.”

Using car horn in anger

Many drivers are not aware that blasting your car horn out of frustration can also lead to fines. According to the Highway Code, drivers should only use theirs horns to warn other road users of their presence.

The standard penalty for using your horn inappropriately is £30. However, this could increase up to £1,000 if challenged.

“Road users have a duty of care to each other, so keeping your cool and remaining focused is important,” Mr Cousins advised. “Your hands should remain on the wheel and your eyes on the road.”

Here are some other lesser-known driving laws you could be breaking every day.

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FAQs

Is it illegal to make rude hand gestures at other drivers in the UK?

Yes, it can be illegal. In the UK, making rude or offensive gestures while driving may be considered a public order offence or fall under careless and inconsiderate driving under the Road Traffic Act 1988, especially if it distracts other road users or escalates tensions.

Can I get fined for making a rude gesture while driving?

Yes. If caught making obscene gestures—such as "flipping the bird", ‘giving the middle finger” or "the V-sign"—you can be issued a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) for disorderly conduct or driving without due care and attention. Penalties may include a £100 fine and three penalty points on your licence.

Is making a rude gesture while driving classed as road rage in the UK?

Yes. Aggressive gestures are often classified as road rage behaviour. While "road rage" itself is not a legal term in the UK, the actions associated with it—like swearing, gesturing, or tailgating—can be prosecuted under existing traffic and criminal laws.

What should I do if someone makes an offensive gesture at me while driving?

Avoid reacting. Instead, focus on your driving, remain calm, and consider reporting the incident to the police via 101 (the non-emergency number), especially if it involves aggressive driving or road rage. Dash cam footage can help support your report.

Can rude hand gestures affect my car insurance in the UK?

Indirectly, yes. If your gesture is part of an incident that results in a claim or conviction, your insurer may view you as a higher-risk driver, which could lead to higher premiums. Convictions for careless or dangerous driving must also be declared to insurers.