New driving laws coming to 2023
The UK often adapts its driving rules as technology adapts and driving customs change. Take the national speed limit for example. Before cars were capable of driving at 100 mph and beyond our vehicles were far slower and speed limits weren’t strictly necessary. However, in 1965 after a series of high-speed and sometimes deadly crashes the minister for transport at the time (Tom Fraser) brought in a national speed limit for all unrestricted roads. At first, this was only a four-month trial period but it was made permanent shortly after due to its clear success. Nowadays speed limits are a central part of keeping both drivers and pedestrians safe on our roads.
So, what are some new rules which you should be aware of in 2023? Keep reading this blog to find out!
Ultra Low Emission Zone expansion
London’s Ultra Low Emission zone or ULEZ replaced the city’s congestion charge and has been met with fairly positive results. Of course, this measure is a key part of making the country’s capital a greener place and expanding the zone will continue to help this cause. This does, however, mean that driving in London will become a more expensive exercise. Currently, ULEZ applies only to parts of central London but from the 29th of August 2023, charges will apply to all 33 of the city’s boroughs. Drivers which own a vehicle that does not comply with ULEZ standards will be charged £12.50 each time they drive through the zone.
Scotland’s parking on pavements ban
It is highly likely that 2023 will see Scotland introduce its long-awaited parking on pavements ban. We’re sure many of you have seen roads with cars parked on the pavements and you may even do this yourself. As of now, (as long the road isn’t restricted or pedestrianised) this is completely legal in all of the countries of the UK. However, soon Scottish drivers who park their vehicles like this will be subject to a hefty fine.
The act was first introduced in 2019 however the pandemic and other external factors mean the enforcement of the law was pushed back to 2023. There is no set date for when the act will come into effect though it is highly likely that this will be the year.
Heavy Good Vehicle Levy Payment
For some time now heavy goods vehicles have had to pay a small levy charge to cover the cost of the damage they cause to the roads. Naturally larger vehicles cause more wear and tear to the roads surface and they should, of course, pay slightly more to cover this cost. During the pandemic, this rule was relaxed to help companies with overheads and the HGV driver shortage. However, now the stresses of the pandemic have started to ease, this rule will be coming back into force in 2023.
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