Diet and Driving: Legal Guidelines and Safety Advice for UK Drivers

While there’s no specific law against eating or drinking non-alcoholic beverages while driving, you could be prosecuted for careless driving if it affects your ability to drive safely. Under Rule 148 of the Highway Code, safe driving needs concentration, and you should avoid distractions such as eating and drinking while driving.

Learn the UK laws and safety guidelines about eating and drinking while driving. Discover what’s legal and what could lead to penalties.

Food and Drink: When to Consume

The safest approach is to plan your journey with regular breaks every two hours for meals or snacks. Using service stations or safe stopping places allows you to take time to eat properly when stationary. Building meal breaks into your journey time ensures you can maintain concentration without the risks associated with eating on the move.

Coffee and Driving: The Legal Position

Drinking coffee while driving isn’t illegal, but handling a hot drink poses significant risks. If you spill hot coffee and subsequently lose control of your vehicle, you could face charges of driving without due care and attention. This carries a potential fine of up to £2,500 and 3–9 penalty points on your license.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks and Driving

Though it’s legal to drink non-alcoholic beverages while driving, safety should be your priority. Consider using a proper drink holder if available, and only drink when it’s safe to do so. Complex drink containers that require two hands should be avoided, and if you need to rehydrate properly, it’s best to stop at a safe place.

The Barefoot Driving Myth

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not illegal to drive barefoot in the UK. However, Rule 97 of the Highway Code states you should ensure your clothing and footwear don’t prevent you from using the controls correctly. This means while barefoot driving isn’t against the law, you must still be able to operate the pedals safely and effectively.

Best Practices for Driver Nutrition

Good nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining alertness while driving. Eating light, balanced meals before long journeys helps maintain steady energy levels. Staying hydrated is important, but remember to plan comfort breaks. Keep healthy snacks easily accessible, but save them for when you’re stationary. Taking proper breaks for main meals ensures you can eat without compromising safety. Professional drivers usually do some kind of training in diet and nutrition for drivers, and this is also useful for other drivers who are interested in how food and drink affect their performance behind the wheel.

The Legal Consequences

The consequences of being distracted by eating, drinking, or smoking while driving can be severe. If these activities cause you to drive carelessly or without due care and attention, you could face fines up to £2,500, receive 3–9 penalty points, or, in serious cases, face disqualification from driving.

Remember, while many of these activities aren’t explicitly illegal, they become an offence if they cause you to drive carelessly. The safest approach is to focus solely on driving while your vehicle is in motion and save other activities for proper breaks. This way, you can ensure both your nutritional needs and your driving safety are properly maintained.