International News

Four new changes will come into force on the roads this month, which all motorists must be aware of. The rules aim to protect road users, especially the most vulnerable like cyclists and pedestrians.

A string of new rules were introduced earlier this year, with the most recent updates coming in July. Meanwhile in June, a handful of new driving laws are being introduced in the Highway Code’s annual update.

This affects a whole host of issues on the road from charging electric cars, to clean air zones. But it has also introduced tough new laws that could see Brits fined up to £1,000 and receive points if they make the wrong move to get out the way of any emergency vehicle.

The Highway Code is clear that motorists should give way to vehicles with flashing lights, including police cars, fire engines, ambulances and emergency doctors. However, the new laws stress that when letting emergency vehicles pass, drivers must continue to abide by the regular laws of the road.

What are September's new driving rules?
Mobile Phone Usage
It will be illegal for motorists in the UK to use their mobiles at any time during a journey, reports the Mirror. Previously, drivers could use their phones for purposes that were not considered “interactive communications” such as looking for music or texting.

Taking goods to Europe
Motorists will now need a licence to carry goods or people that are for hire or reward – such as shared-cost group minibus trips – into the EU or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The standard international goods vehicle licence will be required for light good vehicles, vans, and cars/vans towing trailers.

Now, the law has now tightened which means anyone caught using their phone for any reason will receive a £200 fine and six points on their licence. Drivers who have passed their test within two years could lose their licence completely if caught using a mobile phone.

Speed limiters
All new cars will be fitted with speed limiters installed, which will cap vehicles' top speeds. The change was proposed by the European Commission in the General Safety Regulation it was passed into law by the European Parliament in 2019.

The UK is still likely to adhere to the rules despite Brexit, with it having kept most laws for new cars.
Retrieved from: https://www.bbc.com/news/business-12196322 (17 Aug, 2022)
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