All new driving laws coming into force from today motorists need to know
As 2024 rolls in motorists need to be aware of the new rules of the road as a number of changes to the driving laws come into play on Monday, January 1.
Experts warn that petrol and diesel prices could rise yet again as the Government considers a potential end to the freeze on fuel duty ahead of the General Election. Online retailer platform AutoTrader has highlighted a number of law changes with some of which could catch more learners out when they take their test.
Whilst the rules of the road, of course detailed in the Highway Code, change frequently, the firm warned that motorists who are not aware of alterations could face significant fines. Nimisha Jain, motoring expert at AutoTrader, has outlined some things we're got to be wary on before going behind the wheel.
Some of the new rules are nationwide, however, some are area specific and if you break some of these new rules, motorists could find themselves slapped with a potential penalty so it is important that you take note.
Eyesight test
While the DVSA is yet to confirm what changes will be made to the eyesight exam, many experts predict drivers might be tested in different lighting conditions.
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AutoTrader claim the move could catch more learners out when they're taking their driving test. Mrs Jain said: "As part of the DVSA's plan for 2024, the eyesight test during a driving test might see some changes. Currently, if you can read a number plate from 20 metres away, you pass the eyesight test.
"This method of testing your eyesight might change in the future. The DVSA is consulting a Medical Panel on how the testing procedure should look, as well as asking drivers and experts on better ways to conduct the test."
Fuel prices could be on the rise (Getty Images)Fuel duty freeze
The expert claimed 2024 could be a bad year for petrol and diesel prices as the Government might potentially end the freeze on fuel duty.
Nimisha added: "Fuel duty has been frozen since January 2011 to prevent its rise with inflation. The basic rate on diesel and petrol has been 52.95 pence per litre (ppl) as per the Office for Budget Responsibility which includes the 5ppl cut the Government has granted until the end of March 2024 to help with the cost-of-living crisis.
"In Spring Budget 2024, we will find out more about what the Government plans to do with the fuel duty freeze and the 5ppl cut."
Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs)
AutoTrader also noted drivers of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) could face more stringent safety rules when driving in London from October 2024.
Transport for London (TfL) announced HGV drivers will need a safety permit before entering the UK capital, which will feature a star rating based on the vehicle's all-round visibility.
Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate
Nimisha also suggested next year could be when more UK motorists get behind the wheel of an electric car.
She continued: "From January 1, 2024 onwards, car manufacturers will need at least 22% of their car sales and 10% of their van sales to be fully electric under the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate which aims at increasing the sale of electric vehicles to help reduce emissions.
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"The Government plans to increase this percentage of electric vehicles sold over time so that by 2030, at least 80% of the cars sold are electric, and by 2035, all cars sold in the UK produce zero emissions to stay in line with their ban on the sale of diesel and petrol cars by 2035."
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