Their red Volkswagen Golf was seen accelerating at breakneck speed before driving directly through a large plume of water, soaking a policeman who was minding his own business. The clip was filmed in the wake of Storm Ciara and was uploaded to Facebook group Britain’s Most Wanted.
However, social media users pointed out the owner of the vehicle could be hit with severe penalties even if it was just a pedestrian.
One user said: “Hope he got your number plate and you’ll be charged. Not funny at all.”
Splashing pedestrians after heavy rainfall can see road users hit with massive charges.
Road users are urged to take extra caution to avoid hitting other motorists with water after Storm Dennis battered the UK.
The maximum charge could also be issued if a driver is considered to be driving incompetently or aggressively.
RAC experts confirm a fine would be appropriate to the level of distress caused to send a clear message the behaviour would not be tolerated.
Road safety spokesman, Simon Williams said: “Anyone unfortunate enough to have suffered a drenching by an inconsiderate motorist splashing them when driving through a puddle would probably welcome a sizeable financial penalty for the driver.”
However, road users must show the splashing was deliberate to be charged with an offence.
This could be harder to prove as some motorists may say this was an accident or refuse to admit to the offence unless there is evidence such as mobile phone footage.
Motorists are also urged about the potential risks with splashing motorists if you are not aware of how deep the water is or what could be under the puddle.
Amanda Stretton, motoring editor at Confused.com said: “Some people might think that driving through puddles is a bit of fun, with others accusing the police in this instance of overreacting. However, it can be a serious safety issue for drivers and is highly inconsiderate for pedestrians.
Firstly, drivers have no way of knowing what the road surface is under the puddle, causing unpredictable driving conditions.
Stretton continued: “Secondly, the water itself can cause the car to aquaplane – where the vehicle’s tyres fail to grip the road and cause the driver to lose control.”