How hanging a Christmas Gift could cost you thousands
A viral trend involving car decorations could cost drivers big this holiday season.
Motoring
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For decades, drivers have used their car interior to showcase their personality hanging everything from fluffy dice to beaded charms from their rear view mirror.
But while they might look harmless, decorations that obstruct a driver’s view is illegal.
Now, a viral TikTok trend is putting the issue back in the spotlight.
A soft toy brand Jellycat has become the must-have car decoration this Christmas.
You’re probably wondering what or who is Jellycat?
Jellycat sells adorable designs from bunnies to fruit and vegetable characters.
But there’s one particular design that’s gone viral.
The cherry is causing a stir not just for its cuteness but for the potential cost for drivers.
Searches for “Jellycat Christmas Gift” have soared by 155 per cent in the past month with the cherry design seeing a staggering 194 per cent spike in demand.
Thanks to TikTok, these cherries have become a viral sensation with more than 38.4 million posts featuring the Jellycat cherry as a must-have car decoration.
One trending video has more than 1.1 million views and 91,000 likes.
The video shows the driver attaching the Jellycat to their rear view mirror, captioned “This is your sign to put the Jellycat cherries in your car”.
The clip has amassed thousands of comments, such as “I’m obsessed” and “I’m doing this”.
However, experts have warned that this viral sensation could lead to a hefty fine.
The Australian Road Rules 297 (2) states: “A driver must not drive a motor vehicle unless the driver has a clear view of the road, and traffic, ahead, behind and to each side of the driver.”
What counts as an obstruction is open to interpretation.
Penalties vary between states with New South Wales drivers can be fined approximately $350 and three demerits, similar apply to Queensland.
In Victoria, a fine of more than $200 may be imposed.
The consequences are even more severe in the UK where obstructed visibility can result in fines up to $2,500 and six penalty points on your licence.
Nationwide director Keith Hawes said it’s common for many drivers to feel inspired by viral trends but it’s paramount that drivers prioritise their safety and visibility on the road rather than fashion and social media trends.
“With Jellycats trending as a popular Christmas gift this year, drivers are advised to keep cuddly toys out of their cars to ensure road safety. Drivers who obstruct their view when driving not only increase their risk of accidents on the road but also put themselves liable to high fines and penalties.” he said.
Originally published as How hanging a Christmas Gift could cost you thousands
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