Hefty fine for writing ‘wash me’ on dirty vehicles
We have probably all done it: writing ‘wash me’ on a very grubby car or van. But in the United Kingdom, this soft act of vandalism could end in prosecution for criminal damage and fines of up to £2,500 ($3203).
If you spot a car that is particularly dirty, you must resist the urge to run your finger through it or risk a hefty fine, warns the British newspaper Telegraph & Argus.
Some car owners are particularly protective of their cars. According to them, you could end up scratching the paint and causing hundreds of pounds worth of damage.
Detailing scene
If the owner tracks you down, he could pursue a charge of criminal damage. “Some motorists will go to great lengths to protect their paintwork”, Graham Conway of Select Car Leasing told the British newspaper.
“There’s a whole ‘car detailing’ scene in the UK where enthusiasts swap advice on how to clean, polish and protect the paint on their pride of joy.”
By swirling your finger through the dust or mud on the car you can actually scratch the paintwork, Conway says.
“You can catch dirt and grit underneath your fingertip, which then acts as an abrasive as you write, potentially removing the top layer of ‘clear coat’ lacquer that sits on top of the paint.
If you dig deep enough with your finger you could actually leave a ghost of the word you write. Which means it’s even visible even after the owner washes the car.
Ghost
If the authorities find you you could appear before magistrates to recover the cost of repairs. The respray of a single car panel can cost around £500.
On top of that, a fine of up to £2,500 can be granted.
A thing to remember, the next time you feel the urge to tell another car owner he should consider a visit to the car wash soon.
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