Drivers could be fined £5,000 for eating lunch in their car due to little-known rule Eating or drinking behind the wheel is not technically illegal but motorists could still be penalised for distracted driving - and it could cost them a small fortune Motorists will take their hands off the wheel while eating (Image: (Image: Getty) ) Motorists could face a hefty £5,000 fine and nine penalty points on their driving licence for eating or drinking while driving, warn experts. Car insurance specialists at Tiger.co.uk have highlighted that although eating in your car isn't "technically illegal", drivers could still be penalised for distracted driving. This becomes particularly problematic if motorists "lose control of their vehicle" whilst tucking into their meal. ‌ Experts caution that drivers caught out could be charged with "careless or inconsiderate driving", which carries a significant penalty. The revelation was made by Tiger.co.uk as they debunked common motoring myths. Article continues below Read more: Lanzarote 'forced' to cancel hotel bookings They explained: "While it is not technically illegal to eat or drink when driving, doing so could still see you hit with a fine." ‌ They further clarified: "Rule 148 of the Highway Code states that 'safe driving and riding needs concentration' and specifically advises drivers to avoid distractions such as eating or drinking.", reports the Express. In simple terms, if police determine that eating or drinking behind the wheel has caused you to become distracted and lose control of your vehicle, you could be charged with careless or inconsiderate driving – which carries a fine of up to £5,000 and up to 9 penalty points. "Careless driving refers to situations where motorists fall below the minimum standard expected of a competent and careful driver. This includes drivers who are found to be operating their vehicles without reasonable consideration for other road users. Article continues below Road users might find themselves letting go of the steering wheel to have a bite, potentially losing sight of the road as their attention shifts to their grub. The RAC, experts in roadside assistance and car insurance, point out that this habit could have dire consequences.But they clarified that an immediate hefty fine is unlikely for those snacking drivers. Their statement read: "No, it's not illegal to eat while driving. However, if you get distracted while snacking behind the wheel, the police could prosecute you for careless driving if they consider you to not be in proper control of the vehicle, an offence which carries an on-the-spot fine of £100 and three penalty points. ".