Stay in the driver’s seat of the electric revolution in 2023 with our comprehensive guide to the latest UK driving laws and rules. From council fines to green initiatives, get the latest updates and be prepared for a safer, eco-conscious road ahead.
Councils Gain Enforcement Powers
Twelve local authorities have been allowed to enforce moving traffic regulations. These encompass common infringements such as bus lane violations, obstructing yellow box junctions, unauthorised turns, illegal U-turns, driving the wrong way on a one-way street and disregarding Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs).
While warnings are expected to precede fines, remember that moving traffic offence penalties can soar to over £100.
Graduated Driving Licences for Young Drivers
A game-changer for young drivers under 25, the proposed ‘graduated driving licence’ program is set to temporarily restrict them from carrying passengers of the same age group for six months or a year post-licensing. This bold step aims to curb traffic crashes, a leading cause of young adult fatalities.
With statistics showing that 1 in 5 drivers experience accidents within their first year behind the wheel, this initiative strives to rewrite the safety narrative and a safer road ahead for our budding motorists.
A Greener Wales with 20 mph Speed Zones
Wales is on a mission to go green, with select 30 mph roads transitioning into 20 mph zones starting in September 2023. These zones will target restricted areas, characterised by residential settings and high pedestrian activity, illuminated by closely spaced streetlights.
The rewards are manifold, including reduced accidents, amplified opportunities for pedestrians and cyclists, and enhanced public health with a cleaner, safer environment.
Enhanced DVLA Eyesight Rules
Potential DVLA rule amendments may mandate drivers who rely on glasses to report their eye condition. Currently, this requirement kicks in if you can’t read a modern number plate from 20 metres away or if your visual acuity falls below specific standards.
Expanding London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)
From August 29, 2023, the Ultra Low Emission Zone will envelop all London boroughs. This expansion is a bold attempt to boost air quality for residents by imposing charges on vehicles failing to meet emission standards.
If your vehicle falls short of these standards and you venture into the ULEZ, be prepared to pay a daily fee of £12.50.
Transport for London Scrappage Scheme
In association with the expanded ULEZ road, London’s Mayor unveils a £110 million scheme to assist those affected.
Starting January 30, 2023, the TfL car and motorbike scrappage initiative will broaden its horizons, now open to all Londoners. Furthermore, as of August 21, 2023, grants under the TfL scrappage scheme will increase, benefiting small businesses, micro-businesses, sole traders, charities, and wheelchair-accessible vehicle users.
Farewell to Fuel Duty Reduction
The Chancellor is expected to reveal the government’s fuel duty plan for the future during the Spring Budget 2023. To combat rising fuel prices and the cost of living, fuel duty rates saw a temporary 5p reduction from March 23, 2022.
However, come March 23, 2023, these rates will revert to their normal levels.
BiK Rates Hold Steady Until 2024/25
Benefit-in-kind (BiK) rates have been on the rise in recent years. The government’s announcement that BiK contributions will remain unchanged until April 2025 aims to incentivize employees towards electric cars over conventional ones. This shift towards electric vehicles aligns with the government’s 2030 ban on petrol and diesel cars.
Paving the Way for a Pavement Parking Ban
Parking on pavements, a common annoyance, may soon be a thing of the past. In 2023, Scotland might finally adopt a pavement parking ban following a four-year campaign. Wales has already outlawed this practice, imposing a £70 fine on offenders.
In London, the penalty averages around £120 but is typically halved if paid within two weeks. With stricter enforcement, we can all anticipate more accessible pavements.
E-Scooter Road Safety Trials
E-scooters might be the future of urban transportation. England is currently conducting e-scooter trials in various regions to assess their roadworthiness. These trials mandate e-scooters to meet rigorous criteria, including speed, power, and lighting standards.
With a recent e-scooter trial report highlighting a mere 5% collision rate among users, it’s clear that these trials hold promise. However, user error remains the primary cause of accidents, signalling the potential introduction of formal training.
Residents have also proposed safety measures, including dedicated e-scooter lanes, mandatory helmets, high-visibility attire, and warning bells for pedestrians. E-scooter operators must possess a valid driving licence and proper insurance coverage too.
Potential MOT Frequency Adjustments
Proposed changes might extend the interval between first-year MOTs from 3 to 4 years for motorbikes, cars, and certain vans. This move aims to save motorists approximately £100 million in MOT fees.
Government analysis suggests that most new vehicles pass their MOT at 3 years, with minimal collision rates due to vehicle defects. However, public consultation will be needed before any alterations.
Self-Driving Cars
Self-driving cars are inching closer to reality, with changes to the Highway Code paving the way for their adoption. By 2025, a framework supporting self-driving vehicle technology should be in place, ushering in an era of autonomous travel.
0% VED Tax on Electric Cars Until 2025
For electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts, the horizon looks electrifying. While EVs are set to face taxation in 2025, they currently enjoy a 0% Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). This tax incentive makes EVs not only environmentally friendly but also economically attractive.
As we steer towards a greener, safer, and more technologically advanced future, these driving laws and rules will shape how we navigate our roads. Staying informed ensures a smooth journey into the electrifying world of UK motoring.
