Revealed: New Driving Laws & Rules Coming Soon

By Blind Spot DriveBlog

Revealed: New Driving Laws & Rules Coming Soon

Revealed: New Driving Laws & Rules Coming Soon

Get up to speed on the latest driving laws and rules that could be heading to Britain over the next 12 months. While the pandemic has consumed everyone’s attention over the past few months, it hasn’t stopped the government from proposing new rules and laws that, if implemented, will affect how we drive for years to come.

Here are some of the biggest changes that could be coming to a road near you soon:

Outline of the Article

1. Introduction
   • Overview of the upcoming driving rules changes
   • Brief on government’s aim to improve road safety and reduce pollution
2. Motorway Speed Limits Lowered
   • New speed limit reduction to 60 mph on select motorways
   • Reasons for lowering speed limits to reduce emissions
   • Motorways affected and penalties for non-compliance
3. Motorways Affected by New Speed Limit
   • Specific motorways included: M1, M5, M6, M602
   • 24-hour enforcement details
4. Life Means Life for Dangerous Drivers
   • Possible life sentences for reckless driving leading to fatalities
   • Comparison to the current maximum sentence of 14 years
   • Expected timeline for these changes
5. Government’s Rationale on Stricter Sentencing
   • Statement by Justice Secretary Robert Buckland
   • Examples of cases where leniency was questioned
6. Bus Lane Offenders Given a Break?
   • Proposed rule change for first-time bus lane offenders
   • Warning letters versus fines and repeat offences
7. Expanded Rule for Other Traffic Violations
   • Application of the new rule to cycle lane and yellow box misuse
   • Potential positive impact on drivers’ awareness
8. Introduction of ‘Alcolocks’ for Drink-Drivers
   • Technology for in-car breath tests before starting
   • Targeted at repeat offenders
   • New roadside breathalyzers in consideration
9. Potential Benefits of ‘Alcolocks’
   • How it could help reduce drink-driving cases
   • Improved accuracy in detecting alcohol levels
10. Highway Code Overhaul for Vulnerable Road Users
    • Changes in Highway Code to prioritize pedestrians and cyclists
    • Introduction of a ‘road user hierarchy’
11. Details of the New Hierarchy System
    • Specific rights and priorities for cyclists and pedestrians
    • Clarification on overtaking distances for different speeds
12. Larger Vehicle Restrictions
    • Additional space requirements for trucks around cyclists
    • Enforcement to ensure vulnerable road users’ safety
13. New Rules for Cyclists Riding Two-Abreast
    • Clarification on legality and guidelines
    • Expected impact on driver and cyclist relationships
14. Public Consultation on the Highway Code Changes
    • Opportunity for public participation
    • How to engage with the consultation process
15. Conclusion
    • Summary of the proposed changes
    • How drivers can prepare for these new regulations
16. FAQs
    • What are the penalties for breaking the new speed limit?
    • How do ‘alcolocks’ work?
    • Will all bus lane fines be waived for first-time offenders?
    • How will the Highway Code changes affect cyclists?
    • Can I participate in the consultation on these new rules?

Article

Introduction

As we look ahead to the upcoming year, several new driving laws and rules are expected to come into effect in the UK. These proposed regulations, covering everything from speed limits to harsher punishments for dangerous driving, aim to make roads safer and reduce pollution. Whether you’re a regular motorway driver, a cyclist, or someone interested in road safety, it’s important to be aware of these potential changes.

Motorway Speed Limits Lowered

In a significant move aimed at reducing vehicle emissions, the government has proposed lowering the speed limit from 70 mph to 60 mph on certain motorways. This change will initially apply to specific high-pollution stretches of motorway, where emissions and pollution levels are highest. Reducing the speed limit, officials believe, could help improve air quality and lower harmful emissions over the next 12-15 months.

Motorways Affected by New Speed Limit

This speed limit reduction will apply 24 hours a day on the following motorways:

• M1 (between junctions 34 and 33)
• M5 (between junctions 1 and 2)
• M6 (between junctions 6 and 7)
• M602 (between junctions 1 and 3)

Drivers breaking the 60 mph limit could face a £100 fine and three points on their license, so it’s essential to stay mindful of these changes to avoid penalties.

Life Means Life for Dangerous Drivers

A major proposal under consideration is the introduction of life sentences for dangerous drivers who cause fatalities. Currently, the maximum sentence for causing death by dangerous driving is capped at 14 years. However, if these changes are implemented, drivers found guilty of reckless actions such as speeding, racing, or using a phone could face life imprisonment.

Government’s Rationale on Stricter Sentencing

Justice Secretary Robert Buckland emphasized the need for punishments that better reflect the severity of crimes involving fatal accidents. This push for stricter sentences responds to widespread concerns from families affected by dangerous driving, many of whom feel that current punishments are insufficient.

Bus Lane Offenders Given a Break?

A lighter touch might be on the horizon for first-time offenders caught driving in bus lanes. Under the new proposal, drivers committing this offense for the first time would receive a warning letter instead of a hefty fine, which can be as much as £130. If they re-offend, the fine would then apply.

Expanded Rule for Other Traffic Violations

This “first-time warning” approach could also extend to other minor traffic violations, including cycle lane misuse and yellow box junction infractions. Officials hope this rule will encourage drivers to be more attentive without immediately penalizing them for minor, first-time errors.

Introduction of ‘Alcolocks’ for Drink-Drivers

To combat the ongoing issue of drink-driving, the government is considering introducing “alcolocks.” This in-car technology requires drivers to pass a breathalyzer test before their vehicle can start. While this feature would likely target repeat offenders, it could be a game-changer in reducing drink-driving incidents.

Potential Benefits of ‘Alcolocks’

‘Alcolocks’ could drastically lower repeat offenses by preventing inebriated drivers from even starting their engines. Additionally, new, more accurate roadside breathalyzers may be introduced, further ensuring accurate alcohol detection and deterring drivers from getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.

Highway Code Overhaul for Vulnerable Road Users

The Highway Code may undergo significant changes to better protect vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians. A new hierarchy system could prioritize these road users over drivers, particularly in areas like junctions and pedestrian crossings.

Details of the rules for New Hierarchy System

The updated code would require drivers to yield more readily to cyclists and pedestrians. For instance, when overtaking a cyclist, drivers must maintain a distance of at least 1.5 meters if traveling below 30 mph, and a minimum of 2 meters if over 30 mph. This requirement extends to larger vehicles, such as trucks, which will need to keep a 2-meter distance at all times.

New Rules for Cyclists Riding Two-Abreast

One long-standing debate concerns cyclists riding two-abreast on the road. The new changes aim to clarify that cyclists are, indeed, permitted to ride side by side, though this is often misunderstood by other road users. Clearer rules could improve relations between drivers and cyclists, helping both groups share the road more amicably.

Public Consultation on the Highway Code Changes

The public is invited to participate in the ongoing consultation on these potential Highway Code updates. This input will help shape final decisions, and anyone interested in contributing their views on these changes is encouraged to get involved.

Conclusion

As these proposed rules changes progress, staying informed is essential for every driver. From speed limit reductions and life sentences for dangerous drivers to enhanced safety measures for cyclists and pedestrians, the upcoming changes could reshape driving in the UK. By preparing now, you can ensure you’re ready for the road ahead.

FAQs

1. What are the rules and the penalties for breaking the new speed limit?
Drivers exceeding the new 60 mph limit may receive a £100 fine and three points on their license.

2. How do ‘alcolocks’ work?
‘Alcolocks’ require drivers to pass a breath test before the car can start, helping prevent drink-driving incidents.

3. Will all bus lane fines be waived for first-time offenders?
No, only first-time offenders might receive a warning instead of a fine, but repeat offenses will still be penalized.

4. How will the Highway rules changes affect cyclists?
Cyclists may receive greater priority at junctions and crossings, and specific safe passing distances will be mandated for drivers.

5. Can I participate in the consultation on these new rules?
Yes, the public can take part in the consultation process to share feedback on the proposed changes to the Highway Code.
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