All change!How up to date are you with new driving and riding regs?
For 2015
The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) is trying to prepare the driving public for an array of changes coming up in driving laws in the UK. Their worry is that many don't know what's in store in 2015.
Say whaaaat?
Some new regulations which have changed driving licences, drug-drive limits and speed limits have already happened this year but does anyone know about them? And there are still more changes in the pipeline. Here's a heads up about some of the new laws which are coming, or have already come in, this year.
In March a new law about driving under the influence of legal or illegal drugs came into force across England and Wales.
Earlier this month, the IAM revealed the true scale of drug-driving and riding since the new regulations started and found 902 arrests have already been made by police forces. Motorists convicted of drug-driving will get a minimum one year driving ban, unlimited fine, up to six months imprisonment and a criminal record.
He ain't heavy, he's my brother
In April, the speed limit for the largest heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) travelling on a single carriageway across England and Wales increased from 40mph to 50mph, and on a dual carriageway it has increased from 50mph to 60mph .
Changes to driving laws and other-related procedural changes have also come into force this year to take advantage of the Internet, increase convenience and save time on administration.
From the government’s launch of the
‘Make a Plea’ service in March, which enables motorists charged with minor motoring offences including: speeding, failing to identify the driver or using a vehicle without insurance, to respond to the charges made against them digitally. The DVLA paper counterpart of the photo card was scrapped on 8th June, and all driver information such as endorsements and which category of vehicles you are entitled to drive is now stored electronically – motorists now have to access all their driver information remotely. Important changes have also come into force with how motorists provide proof of their driving records to a third party, they will need to obtain a special code online to allow the sharing of data.
Red lorry, yellow lorry
A new scheme will come in in London on the 1st of September this year which ensures that all lorries and construction vehicles over 3.5 tonnes are fitted with basic safety equipment.
The Safer Lorry Scheme, which will be enforced by the Metropolitan Police, City of London Police and the Driver Vehicle Standards Agency, will aim to tackle the number of fatal collisions involving motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians. The scheme will run 24 hours a day across the city and any drivers found in charge of a non-compliant vehicle may be issued with a £50 penalty notice and a potential £1000 fine at the Magistrates Court .
Smokeless zone
Upcoming changes to driving laws will also see smoking in cars carrying children under the age of 18 becoming illegal from 1 October. Fines and penalties pursuant to this are expected to be announced closer to the time.
Sarah Sillars, IAM chief executive officer said:
“This year has seen some of the biggest changes in motoring procedures we have ever seen. It is very important drivers and riders are fully up-to-date on what is happening – they will affect everyone in one way or another. So don’t get caught out, get informed.”
How many of these did you know about? what do you think about any or all of them? Let us know your thoughts
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