Motorists have been urged to familiarize themselves with new driving laws that will come into effect in September, including tougher rules banning the use of mobile phones.
Drivers are also being warned to look out for clean air zones when traveling and to ensure their vehicle has the necessary permits to avoid a fine.
A spokesman for leasing company LeaseCar.uk said: “It is vital for all drivers to be aware of the changes to the road rules this summer. No one wants to get a fine or a severe penalty for driving without knowing the new rules.
“The Government and local councils have introduced additional regulations to help improve air quality in city centers and overall road safety for all involved – two areas that are increasingly being recognized for change.
“Keep up to date with the latest Road Traffic updates and rules this summer to avoid fines and penalties for driving and help keep other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians safe.”
Here are four law changes drivers should be aware of this September:
Low emission zones
Low Emission Zones (LEZs) are schemes commonly implemented in cities to tackle pollution.
If a vehicle meets the minimum emissions standard, it is charged to enter the zone.
Several cities in Great Britain London, Brighton and Birmingham have already introduced the scheme, with many more to follow, including Dundee, Aberdeen and Edinburgh over the next few years.
Failure to pay the daily fee for a vehicle entering the LEZ will result in heavy fines.
Using a mobile phone
Motorists in the UK are now banned from using their mobile phones at any time while travelling.
Previously, drivers could use their phones for non-“interactive communication” purposes, such as searching for music or taking photos.
However, the law has now become tougher, meaning anyone caught using the phone for any reason will face a £200 fine and six points on their licence.
(Getty Images/iStockphoto)
As an added measure, drivers who have passed their test within two years can lose their license entirely if they are caught using a mobile phone.
Speed limiters
Under a little-known rule announced this summer, all new cars must now have a speed limiter.
The device is installed on the car and works by limiting the power of the engine, limiting the speed of the car.
However, the driver is still obliged to follow the speed limits on the road.
Cargo transport to Europe
Drivers will need a license to transport goods or people for hire or reward – such as shared fare group trips in minibuses – in the EU or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
A standard international goods vehicle license will be required for passenger cars, vans and cars/vans towing trailers.