Revealed: New Driving Laws for 2017 & Beyond
By Blind Spot DriveBlog
Revealed: New Driving Laws for 2017 & Beyond
Staying informed about the latest driving laws is essential for both new and experienced motorists. 2017 has ushered in several impactful changes aimed at improving road safety, enhancing driving tests, and increasing accountability for drivers. From stricter penalties for mobile phone use to revamped driving tests, here’s everything you need to know to stay ahead of the curve.
Outline of the Article
H1: Revealed: New Driving Laws for 2017 & Beyond
- H2: Introduction
- Importance of staying updated on driving laws.
- Overview of the changes in 2017.
- H2: Crackdown on Mobile Phone Use While Driving
- H3: New Penalties
- H3: Impact on New Drivers
- H3: When These Laws Take Effect
- H2: Changes to the Practical Driving Test
- H3: Extended Independent Driving Section
- H3: Introduction of Sat Nav Usage
- H3: Real-Life Manoeuvres
- H3: Vehicle Safety Questions
- H3: Motorway Lessons for Learners
- H2: 120-Hour Minimum Practice Requirement
- H3: Proposed Learning Period
- H3: Benefits of Increased Practice
- H3: Implementation Plans
- H2: Stricter Penalties for Dangerous Driving
- H3: Life Sentences for Dangerous Driving Deaths
- H3: Public Campaigns and Legal Backlash
- H3: Expected Timelines
- H2: Conclusion
- Summary of key changes.
- Importance of adapting to new regulations.
- H2: FAQs
- What are the new penalties for mobile phone use while driving?
- How will the changes to the driving test affect new drivers?
- Why is a 120-hour learning period being considered?
- What qualifies as dangerous driving under the new proposals?
- When will these driving laws come into full effect?
Article
Introduction
Driving laws evolve to reflect the changing realities of the road. 2017 has been a milestone year with significant updates aimed at making roads safer and preparing drivers more effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a learner, understanding these new driving laws is essential to avoid penalties and ensure safety.
Crackdown on Mobile Phone Use While Driving
Using a mobile phone behind the wheel has always been a dangerous gamble, and the new driving laws are cracking down harder than ever.
New Penalties
From March 1, 2017, the penalties for mobile phone use while driving have doubled. Drivers caught using their phones can now face a £200 fine and six penalty points, a significant increase from the previous £100 fine and three points.
Impact on New Drivers
For new drivers, these changes are especially severe. A single offense could lead to an automatic loss of their license, as accumulating six points in the first two years of driving results in revocation.
When These Driving Laws Take Effect
The updated penalties took effect on March 1, 2017. It’s a clear message from the government: distracted driving won’t be tolerated.
Changes to the Practical Driving Test
The practical driving test has undergone a major overhaul to align with modern driving conditions and challenges.
Extended Independent Driving Section
The independent driving segment has been increased from 10 to 20 minutes. This change allows examiners to assess a candidate’s ability to navigate real-world driving scenarios.
Introduction of Sat Nav Usage
To reflect modern driving habits, learners are now required to follow directions from a sat nav during the independent driving section.
Real-Life Manoeuvres
Traditional manoeuvres like “reverse around a corner” have been replaced with practical tasks such as parking in a bay, ensuring drivers are tested on everyday skills.
Vehicle Safety Questions
Examiners will now ask one of the two vehicle safety questions while the candidate is driving, such as how to operate the rear-heated window. This tests multitasking ability under real driving conditions.
Motorway Lessons for Learners
Learners may soon be allowed on motorways during lessons with a qualified instructor. This change aims to prepare new drivers for all types of roads.
120-Hour Minimum Practice Requirement
The government is considering a mandatory 120-hour learning period for learners before they can take the driving test.
Proposed Learning Period
Learners would be required to log their practice hours in a formal logbook, which could include lessons with instructors or supervised driving with family.
Benefits of Increased Practice
Research shows that increased practice leads to safer drivers. This requirement ensures learners are adequately prepared before they hit the road alone.
Implementation Plans
While the proposal is still under discussion, it reflects the government’s commitment to reducing road accidents among young drivers.
Stricter Penalties for Dangerous Driving
Dangerous driving has long been a concern, and 2017 introduces tougher consequences for offenders.
Life Sentences for Dangerous Driving Deaths
The government is proposing life sentences for drivers causing death by dangerous driving, up from the current maximum of 14 years.
Public Campaigns and Legal Backlash
High-profile cases have sparked public outcry, leading to calls for stricter penalties. For instance, the tragic case of Addil Haroon highlighted the need for harsher consequences.
Expected Timelines
The consultation for these proposals ended in February 2017, with changes expected soon after.
Conclusion
The new driving laws for 2017 mark a significant step towards safer roads and more competent drivers. Whether it’s stricter penalties for mobile phone use, revamped driving tests, or proposed changes like the 120-hour learning period, these updates emphasize the importance of accountability and preparedness.
FAQs
1. What are the new penalties for mobile phone use while driving?
Drivers face a £200 fine and six penalty points if caught using a mobile phone behind the wheel.
2. How will the changes to the driving test affect new drivers?
The test now includes sat nav navigation, longer independent driving, and real-life manoeuvres, making it more practical and challenging.
3. Why is a 120-hour learning period being considered?
This measure aims to ensure learners have sufficient practice, reducing accidents caused by inexperienced drivers.
4. What qualifies as dangerous driving under the new proposals?
Dangerous driving includes actions like excessive speeding, street racing, and using a mobile phone while driving.
5. When will these driving laws come into full effect?
Some changes, like mobile phone penalties, are already in effect, while others, like driving test updates, are rolling out throughout 2017.
Police Bike © West Midlands Police
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