Drivers have been urged to protect their cars ahead of Bonfire Night to avoid the risk of a £1,000 fine and accidents.

While Bonfire Night is often considered an evening of fireworks and spectacular bonfires, the typical activities that take place there can leave nearby vehicles covered in debris.

Alex Hynes, Services Manager at Dick Lovettstressed that drivers should avoid leaving without cleaning debris from their vehicles after the big night.

He advised: “It is essential that drivers take extra precautions to protect their windscreens from debris on this bonfire night – especially after such a year of continually unpredictable weather conditions.

“While drivers do not feel responsible for reduced visibility caused by Bonfire Night debris, especially if they are not actually attending a display, drivers have a legal responsibility to ensure their vehicle is still in good working order.”

Despite their impressive appearance, fireworks can leave behind debris which, in weather conditions such as wind, can travel long distances and turn into a pasty substance when mixed with rain.

In addition to making a car unsightly, any debris that ends up on the vehicle’s windows could limit the driver’s vision of their surroundings, thus increasing the risk of serious accidents.

Drivers whose view of the road is blocked could also face fines of up to £1,000 and three penalty points on their license.

To avoid serious penalties, Dick Lovett recommended that motorists keep their vehicles covered during Bonfire Night.

While drivers can buy full vehicle cover for just £15, smaller covers designed to fit over the windscreen are even more affordable.

Alternatively, drivers planning to attend a Bonfire Night event have been asked to avoid parking too close to the venue, which could increase the risk of debris landing on the car.

Motorists planning to travel during Bonfire Night are also advised to remain calm and concentrate on the roads throughout their journey.

Although the noise and colors of fireworks can be particularly attractive, they can very easily distract drivers from their surroundings.

Those who don’t concentrate on the road and have an accident could be charged with careless driving, resulting in a £100 on-the-spot fine and three points.