Warning issued to UK drivers over seven main legislation modifications this yr | EUROtoday

UK drivers have been urged to familiarise themselves with the upcoming motoring guidelines and laws which might be anticipated to take impact this yr. Motoring specialists at automobile leasing offers comparability web site LeaseLoco have outlined seven modifications that might quickly have an effect on drivers throughout the UK. The new laws are vital and goal to enhance highway security and cut back accidents.

John Wilmot, CEO and founding father of LeaseLoco, stated: “We’re set to see an enormous shake-up to motoring guidelines this yr, and it’s essential that drivers perceive how these modifications are going to have an effect on them. Many of the proposals goal to enhance highway security, with the stricter drink-drive restrict and more durable drug-driving enforcement highlighting a transparent push to crack down on harmful driving.”

He also highlighted the prospect of mandatory eyesight tests for older drivers, which has not been confirmed, and stricter seatbelt rules.

Mr Wilmot said: “At the same time, drivers should be prepared for rising costs, with expected increases to fuel duty and changes to congestion charges likely to add to the overall expense of driving.”

Below is a full list of rule changes that have already been confirmed, or that experts believe to be around the corner.

1. Reduced drink-driving limits

The Government is believed to be considering whether or not to reduce the drink driving limit from the current 35mg of alcohol per 100ml of breath to 22mg, which matches the stricter limit that’s already in place in Scotland.

2. Roadside tests for drug driving

Proposed new regulations would enable police to use saliva-based roadside tests as sufficient evidence for prosecuting drug driving offences, significantly speeding up the prosecution process. Currently, a positive roadside result requires a follow-up blood test, specialists highlight.

3. Mandatory eyesight tests

Drivers aged 70 and above may soon be required to undergo mandatory eyesight tests every three years when they renew their licence, experts believe, as the current system “depends on motorists to self-report any issues with their imaginative and prescient”. The new regulations would aim to ensure all drivers meet the vision requirements needed for safe driving.

4. Stricter seatbelt rules

At the moment, not wearing a seatbelt can result in a fine of up to £500. But updated rules would add three penalty points to your licence for the same offence, and passengers who don’t wear a seatbelt could receive penalty points too, LeaseLoco suggests.

5. London Congestion Charge changes

On January 2, the daily Congestion Charge in London increased from £15 to £18. Electric car owners also lost their 100% exemption, but can still apply for a 25% discount.

6. Fuel duty increasing

Although the Autumn Budget stated that fuel duty remains frozen until September 2026, it is then set to be increased in a staggered approach, for the first time in 16 years, experts suggest.

“This means drivers might face noticeably greater bills on the pumps from late 2026 onwards,” LeaseLoco say.

7. Driving check reserving modifications

In the spring, the DVSA will introduce modifications to its driving check reserving system. The new modifications will permit learners to e-book their very own exams, aiming to forestall bots and third-party sellers from grabbing obtainable check slots and reselling them at inflated costs.