If you are new to the roads of the UK, then you must be aware of the basic driving rules of the UK and its regulations. It will make you fit to drive legally on the roads of the UK without any fear after acquiring the UK driving license.
The very first thing that makes you fit for the roads of the UK is a UK driving license. Apart from this, various parameters are to be taken into account to drive a vehicle safely in the UK. Let us get them one after one in this blog.
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Why is it essential to know the driving laws UK?
The best driver is the one who knows and obeys the road rules of the country. It is not only about the UK. Wherever you go in this world, every country has its own rules and regulations that have to follow by the drivers to avoid unwanted road crisis.
Every one of us thinks that we are good drivers until we realize the road rules properly. By knowing the driving laws of the UK, you can avoid risky road accidents or penalties, hefty fines and prevent damage to your vehicle.
What are some of the fundamental road rules in the UK?
Here are some vital driving tips for the new drivers that could help them on the roads,
- It is fundamental to drive the vehicle only on the left-hand side of the road.
- You have to wear the seat belt if you can (there are exceptional cases). Else can be fined up to £500.
- Every vehicle should pave the way for the emergency vehicle.
- You should not drive if the blood alcohol limit is higher than usual else will be penalized.
- It is important to check car tax before taking the vehicle out. It is illegal if you take out a SORN vehicle on the roads of the UK.
- You should possess the UK driving license to meet the vital qualification.
- Depending upon the type of road you are driving, the speed limit varies, so it is important to make sure.
- Everybody should follow the traffic signs and signals properly.
- It is against the road laws of the UK to use mobile during driving. If the call is an emergency, park the car safely and make it.
- Parking in restricted areas is offensive and should not park there.
The 4 driving laws you need to know in 2023
A scrappage scheme for London businesses
As the ULEZ expands later in the year, London drivers can apply for a grant starting on January 30th, 2023, to help them meet the emissions standards. The recipients of the grants will be able to scrap or modify their vehicles to switch to a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation. Small businesses and sole proprietors operating in the 32 boroughs of London are also eligible for the program.
In March, fuel duty may increase by 23%
The Office for Budget Responsibility has stated that they anticipate a fuel duty increase of 23% in late March, which would increase the fuel price by 12p per litre. In the 2022 Spring Statement, the government reduced the tax on gasoline and diesel for a year.
However, they haven’t confirmed the increase, so the 2023 Spring Statement will likely contain any updates.
Vehicle excise duty is 0% on electric vehicles (for now)
Electric vehicle drivers will be happy to learn that this 0% rate will last between 2023 and 2025. But starting in 2025, all-electric cars, vans, and motorcycles—including those used by businesses—will be subject to a Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) fee.
ULEZ in London is expanding
Clean air zones, also known as low emission zones, are intended to enhance the quality of the air and lower emissions in urban areas. Beginning on August 29, 2023, the Greater London Authority will include all areas within London’s ultra-low emissions zone. If a driver’s vehicle doesn’t comply to the required safety and emissions standards, they will be required to pay £12.50 per day.
5 Driving laws and changes in 2022
New driving laws & changes are set to take effect in the coming year. A significant change to the Highway Code is expected, requiring those who have the greatest potential to cause harm to others to bear a higher level of responsibility under a road user hierarchy. Here we have listed a few important laws in 2022:
- The use of mobile phones will be prohibited
Stricter laws are prohibiting the use of a mobile phone while driving will go into effect. Other than the emergency cases, it is already illegal to call or text while driving. However, in 2022, drivers are prohibited from using their phones to take photos or videos, scroll through playlists, or play games. Anyone who gets caught using a handheld device while driving will face a £200 fine and six points on their licence.’ Hands-free’ devices, such as a sat-nav, will still be usable if secured in a mount holder. - Petrol costs
Another freeze on fuel duty is that the tax you pay per litre of petrol and diesel – was announced in the 2021 Budget. As a result, it will remain at the same level – 57.95p per litre – that it has been for the past decade. Petrol prices, on the other hand, are continuing to rise to record highs. - DVLA checks could be performed by nurses
All drivers are needed by law to meet medical standards to ensure they are fit to drive. The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) generally needs a questionnaires to be completed by a driver’s GP or consultant to assist in making these decisions. Nonetheless, the government is considering changing the rules regarding who can administer medical questionnaires. - It may be illegal to park on pavements
Parking on the pavement is already illegal in London, but changes to the law in 2022, giving local councils across England and Wales the authority to levy £70 fines on the spot for those who mount the kerb. In November 2020, the government held a consultation on the issue, with a proposed blanket ban to prevent motorists from blocking pavements for parents with pushchairs, those with limited mobility, and anyone relying on a seeing-eye dog. - New cars have speed limiters
The Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) black boxes will use GPS to determine the speed limit and ensure that the car does not exceed it. As the General Safety Regulation has been approved by the European Parliament, a new regulation will be implemented by the European Commission in 2019. ISAs will be required for all new models given ‘type approval’ beginning July 6. It includes any new car brought to market after that date rather than new cars already in production.
Can I drive in a ULEZ zone after getting a UK driving license?
ULEZ zones are low emission zones that target the older, more polluting vehicles to control the toxic air pollution in and around the UK. Your vehicle must meet the ULEZ zone standards. Else the driver has to pay the daily charge to drive in the particular zone. Mostly the charge for diesel is high compared to petrol and electric vehicle. It includes cars from all categories starting from motorbikes to heavy vehicles.
