Over half of UK drivers are violating the highway code due to widespread driving myths, according to recent research.

A survey conducted by LKQ Euro Car Parts sought to uncover the most common misconceptions among UK drivers about road rules and the potential repercussions of these beliefs.

With nearly three out of five (58%) drivers infringing the highway code because of these myths, and risking driving fines of up to £1,000, experts at LKQ Euro Car Parts have spotlighted the five most frequent errors and the reality behind each one.

Check out these five myths below to make sure you aren't breaking any of the rules.

Otherwise you could find yourself hit with a fine for unintentionally breaking the highway code. 

Myth 1: Flashing your lights as a friendly gesture is acceptable (60%)

Almost half (45%) of motorists confess that they occasionally flash their full-beam lights as a friendly gesture, with some even sharing they do this on social media. This is often done to allow someone out of a junction or to express gratitude in return.

However, this seemingly kind act is actually a breach of the highway code and could lead to a fine of up to £1,000. A significant 60% of drivers are unaware that this behaviour is prohibited.

Highway Code Rule 110 states: "Only flash your headlights to let other road users know that you are there. Do not flash your headlights to convey any other message or intimidate other road users. Never assume that flashing headlights is a signal inviting you to proceed."

Myth 2: It's illegal to drive with the interior light on (38%)

From a young age, many people are led to believe that it's illegal to drive with the interior light on. In fact, 38% of drivers hold this belief.

However, contrary to popular belief, there are no rules against driving with your vehicle's interior lights on. That being said, it can be distracting, so it should only be used when absolutely necessary and for brief periods.

Myth 3: You can beep your horn to express frustration (52%)

More than half of UK drivers (52%) think it's harmless to honk their car horn at other road users out of frustration, with over a third (36%) admitting they have done so in the past.

However, while you can use your horn to alert others to danger, if you honk simply out of annoyance, you are violating the highway code and could receive a Fixed Penalty Notice of £30.

According to rule 112 of the highway code: "Use your horn only while your vehicle is moving, and you need to warn other road users of your presence. Never sound your horn aggressively. You must not use your horn while stationary on a road - "except" when another road user poses a danger."

Myth 4: It is illegal to drive in certain footwear or barefoot (43%)

The type of footwear you wear while driving can impact your ability to drive safely, but there are no strict rules or laws about what you can wear on your feet, including flip flops, high heels and even going barefoot.

A significant number of drivers mistakenly believe it's illegal to drive in flipflops (41%), barefoot (43%) or in high heels (29%). However, you can be stopped for unsafe driving, so always ensure you can drive competently in whatever footwear you choose.

Myth 5: Air-con is more fuel efficient than rolling down the windows (68%)

Over two thirds of drivers (68%) believe air-con uses less fuel than driving with the windows down, thus making it the most economical choice.

However, this isn't accurate. When driving at slower speeds, having the windows open is the more fuel-efficient option as it creates minimal drag compared to the constant energy consumption caused by AC.