The rules of the road are ever-changing, with tweaks to the law being made all the time. To make sure you feel confident on the road, it’s a good idea to keep up with these new rule changes and make sure you’re comfortable following the new laws.
The new laws could see potential changes to the cost of fuel, the eyesight test during driving lessons and other road regulations, so to help you stay prepared, we’re looking at new driving laws in 2024.
Fuel Duty Freeze to End
The fuel duty freeze has meant that the cost of petrol and diesel has been set at 52.95p per litre, protecting the figure from inflation. However, this freeze is only temporary, having been extended for another year in 2023 and now set to end in March 2024. There have been calls for the fuel duty freeze to be extended again, however until the spring budget is announced, it’s not clear whether this will be the case or not.
There is no indication as to what the cost of diesel and petrol will increase to but if you are concerned, it could be time to make the switch to an electric or hybrid vehicle. Cutting down on petrol and diesel consumption could help you lower travel costs and save more in the long term.
Does it affect you directly?
Yes, this law will have a direct impact on the everyday driver as the cost of petrol and diesel is likely to rise. This can mean that the general cost of your daily journeys will increase and will be subject to growing inflation rates.
Changes to Eyesight Test From DVSA
As part of your driving test, you are required to demonstrate that your eyesight is sufficient, essentially proving that you’re able to comfortably see where you’re driving and any potential hazards. However, for 2024, the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) are expected to make changes to the eyesight test after consulting a medical panel.
The changes are expected to make the test more flexible and are being explored so that eyesight can be tested in different levels of light. It’s unknown when these changes will be introduced, however discussions are ongoing so there is a chance they could be in play before the end of 2024.
Does it affect you directly?
Yes, if you’re yet to pass your driving test, it’s worth making sure that you have an eyesight test before your driving test. If you do have issues with your vision, make sure you have a suitable pair of glasses or contact lenses with you for your driving test.
New Number Plates
This isn’t a new law so much as something that you should be aware of as number plates change again for 2024. This year will see the introduction of number plates with ‘24’ and ‘74’ being introduced on March 1st and September 1st respectively.
If you’re unfamiliar with the numbering system, we explain everything you need to know about UK number plates in this blog.
Does it affect you directly?
No, this won’t impact your experience on the roads, however, it is a good idea to have a basic understanding of the number plate system as it can help you calculate the age of a vehicle.
Car Manufacturers Must Meet EV Quota
By now you will have likely heard of the upcoming ban on the sale of petrol and diesel cars which is set to come into play from 2035 after originally being announced for 2030. Well, the government is stepping up the industry’s progress towards this goal as they now require manufacturers to ensure that 22% of car sales and 10% of van sales are fully electric.
This law has been in place since January 1st 2024 and is outlined in the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate.
Does it affect you directly?
No, unless you’re in charge of vehicle sales for a car manufacturer, as a customer you won’t be impacted directly.
HGVs Safety Improvements
This rule applies to Greater London and as of October 24th, lorries which weigh over 12 tonnes will be required to have a three-star rating or feature a progressive Safe System. The law is being imposed to encourage safer driving and as these large vehicles are a substantial presence on the road, the TFL (Transport for London) is aiming to offer more protection for other road users.
Does it affect you directly?
Not if you’re a regular road user. If you drive a HGV, you’ll need to be aware of the law but it will be your employers who take care of your lorry’s safety compliance.
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We want to keep you in the loop with essential news from the automotive industry and tips which will improve your life on the road. For more insights and important information, check out our explainers page for updates. If you ask us, we’d say the safest way to hit the roads is in a brand-new motor or used car from us.