Brits to face these FOUR new UK driving laws from September

BRITS are set to face FOUR new UK driving laws from next month.

The new road rules come into play from September and could see those unaware of the changes fined hundreds of pounds.

1

One of the new laws will see everyone spotted using a mobile phone behind the wheel – for any reason – fined £200, and some drivers could lose their licence altogether.

Plus, other changes will see more Clean Air Zones introduced, with fees charged; all new cars will be fitted with a speed limiter; and a licence will be required to travel goods into Europe.

Experts at LeaseCar.uk have offered advice on the upcoming rules, with a spokesperson telling Birmingham Live: “It is really important for all drivers to keep an eye out on the changes to motoring rules this summer.

“No-one wants to be landed with a fine or severe driving penalty by simply not staying updated on new regulations.

“The government and local councils have both introduced further rulings to help improve air quality in city centres, as well as the general road safety for all users – two areas which have become increasingly more recognised to implement measures of change.

“Stay up-to-date with the latest updates and regulations of the Highway Code this summer to avoid fines and driving sanctions, and help to keep fellow drivers, cyclists and pedestrians safe.”

MOBILE PHONE USAGE

Closing a loophole, it is now illegal for UK motorists to use their mobile phones for any purpose, even while stopped at a red light.

Before the update, drivers could scroll through playlists and take photos, claiming they were not using devices for “interactive communications”.

Now, there will be more safety for road users, and those who are caught could be landed with a £200 fine and six points on their licence.

And drivers who have passed their test within two years could lose their licence entirely.

CLEAN AIR ZONES

Also known as Low Emission Zones, several cities across the UK have introduced this ruling to help the air quality in the local area, as well as reducing harmful emissions.

Manchester introduced the scheme at the end of May, with Newcastle planning to follow suit later this year.

Scottish cities such as Dundee, Aberdeen and Edinburgh will also introduce Clean Air Zones in the next few years.

Depending on the type of vehicle and how old it is, drivers will be charged a fee for travelling within the Clean Air Zone.

SPEED LIMITERS

The Government announced that from this summer, all new cars will be required to be fitted with a speed limiter.

This device is installed on cars and will restrict the engine power so the vehicle does not pass a certain speed; but drivers will still be held responsible for sticking to the speed limit.

These speed limiters will improve road safety for all users, and will be a step forward for the development of self-driving cars in the UK.

TRANSPORTING GOODS INTO EUROPE

Introduced at the end of May, drivers will now need a licence to carry goods for hire or reward 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 or vans towing trailers.