Urgent warning over TikTok car transformation trend which could see you slapped with 11 points on your licence
TIKTOK has gone wild over a cute trend which sees drivers use DIY covers for their steering wheels – but the trend could have serious consequences.
Along with other modifications such as gear shift and handbrake covers, the seemingly harmless accessory could cause serious damage.
One user shared her version of the steering wheel cover – a custom crochet fluffy pink number.
The cute and fluffy objects have sparked controversy due to safety.
It begged the question – can drivers maintain a proper grip on the wheel, gear stick and handbrake in an emergency?
The Highway Code would deem it dangerous driving if you lost control due to slippery grip, and could see you license being slapped with a whopping 11 points.
Despite these warnings, users online have continued to try the trend for themselves.
TikToker Bianca gushed: “I’m honestly IN LOVE with my new fluffy steering wheel cover from Amazon.”
Another cute TikTok trend shows diamante gemstones stuck along the dashboard.
Motorists are even gluing them to air vents and steering wheels to spice up the interior.
But from a health and safety point of view this trend is concerning.
If the airbags were to deploy, gemstones could cause serious injury to your face.
It also makes the vehicle easy to track, and will indicate to many car thieves the vehicle is owned by a woman.
Unfortunately, this often makes criminals believe it will be an easier target.
The Highway Code states bedazzling or modifying your car in this way could be seen as “careless and inconsiderate driving” in the eyes of the law.
This is because it could distract you or other drivers – and risks and unlimited fine, and/or discretionary disqualification, or three to nine points in the licence.