Laws are constantly changing, and one area where you’ll most likely see this effect is on the roads.
So with 2019 already seeing a number of new laws brought into force, and with many more on the cards, here’s a full roundup of them all.
London’s ULEZ scheme
London is an area where pollution is of a particular concern, and one of the places that has been a target for improved air quality for some time.
This started in 2003 when the Congestion Charge was introduced, which charges drivers for entering Central London – now at a rate of £11.50 each day in a bid to encourage others to use public transport.
But from earlier this year, drivers of more polluting and typically older vehicles are subject to the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge. Most vehicles, including cars and vans, need to meet the ULEZ emissions standards or their drivers must pay a daily charge to drive within the zone: £12.50 for most vehicle types, including cars, motorcycles and vans (up to and including 3.5 tonnes) whilst heavier vehicles can be charged up to £100 per day to enter Central London.
Fines for drivers ignoring closed lanes on Smart Motorways
Stay up to date on the latest car news. Subscribe to our newsletter >
One of the key benefits of Smart Motorways is the safety factor – with overhead signs signalling speed limits and closed lanes that drivers must not use once a red ‘X’ is signalled above that lane.
Since June 10, police have had the power to punish those driving in closed motorway lanes, under new Home Office legislation. New cameras can also catch those who are dangerously ignoring the closed lanes, too. It’s illegal to drive in a lane closed by a Red X sign. If you’re caught, you could receive a fixed penalty of up to £100 and three points, and in some cases more severe penalties or a court appearance.
Tax changes
If you’ve noticed that your car tax bill has gone up slightly recently, that’s because of inflation, which has affected Vehicle Excise Duty. For most drivers the price will have only risen by £5 annually, but on more polluting vehicles, it has increased by £15.
To avoid paying road tax completely, choose an all-electric car that produces zero-emissions, though it’s only those costing under £40,000 that are road tax exempt.
Driving on the continent in the event of a no deal Brexit
With a no-deal Brexit still on the cards, the government has previously revealed details on how this might affect drivers if we’re to leave the EU without a deal.
If it does happen, you will need to get an international drivers’ permit (costing £5.50 from the Post Office) to drive abroad. You should also obtain a motor insurance green card from your insurance provider, too, before driving in the EU. Because companies have been experiencing high demand for these, it’s recommended you obtain one of these as soon as possible before driving on the continent.
Is a pavement parking ban on the cards?
The Transport Committee in Parliament has recently brought up the contentious issue of pavement parking again – something that has been illegal in London since 1974.
But now there is talks of introducing a blanket ban across the UK to stop those that currently park on pavements. That’s because it can make those who are disabled or visually impaired feel isolated and can increase loneliness. It is also an issue for those with pushchairs and children, too.
While there is no change in the law being implemented yet, the Department for Transport has said it has carried out a review and will announce the next steps from the findings “over the coming months”.