All of the 2024 driving law changes as warnings issued to motorists

30/12/2023

The new year is set to mark a number of new driving rules. There are a number of changes to the driving laws coming into force in 2024 – and it’s important that motorists are aware of them. AutoTrader [1] has highlighted a number of law changes, some of which could catch more learners out when they take their test.

Although the rules of the road – 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’ve got to be wary of 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, reports The Mirror.[2]

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.

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.”

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.

Fuel duty freeze

The expert also 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.”

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.

“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.”

References

^ AutoTrader (go.skimresources.com)
^ reports The Mirror. (www.mirror.co.uk)
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