British motorists are urged to remain vigilant about the latest changes in motoring laws including “stealth laws” that could land motorists in trouble without the knowing.
Some of these changes, especially abroad, could catch holidaymakers unaware and leave them hundreds of pounds out of pocket. Here are a number of new changes coming into effect this October that drivers need to carefully consider.
They include changes to speed limit tolerance levels as well as changes to driver’s license rules in places like Spain. New number plates are also coming in.
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For those travelling to France by car, there are some new rules regarding electric vehicles, among many others. Below is a list of the four new changes coming this October that drivers should be aware of.
Speed Limits
A new “stealth law” that could catch thousands of drivers off guard has been quietly introduced by the Metropolitan Police. The speed limit tolerance threshold has been lowered by one mile per hour, meaning that drivers could face prosecution if they exceed the limit by 10% plus 2mph.
For example, a driver who travels at 35mph in a 30mph zone could be fined, whereas before they would have been allowed up to 36mph. The change, which was not directly announced by the Met, came into effect earlier this year and has resulted in a 259% increase in the number of fines issued to speeding motorists.
According to the RAC, an estimated 347,000 drivers were warned they would be prosecuted for speeding in the first six months of 2023.
Driving in Spain
British expats living in Spain have been banned from using their UK driving licences on Spanish roads since May. The Department for Transport (DfT) is still negotiating with the Spanish authorities to resolve the issue, which affects around 300,000 Britons who reside in Spain.
The UK ambassador in Spain, Hugh Elliot, said he was frustrated by the lack of progress and hoped that a solution would be found soon. He urged British drivers to exchange their UK licences for Spanish ones as soon as possible, or apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) if they plan to visit Spain.
Driving in France
A change in France’s motoring regulations impacts electric car owners. In a move aimed at facilitating electric vehicle (EV) charging, any EV parked in front of a public charging station must be actively connected and charging. Failure to comply could result in a significant £52 fine. This regulation underscores the growing emphasis on supporting green initiatives and sustainable transportation methods.
Fuel Duty
The fuel duty rates, which were reduced by 5p for a year to help drivers cope with the rising cost of fuel and living expenses, will return to normal on 23 March 2023. The temporary measure was announced by the Chancellor in the Spring Statement of 2022 and was welcomed by motorists and campaigners.
However, there are speculations that the fuel duty rates may increase further in the future, as the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has suggested that raising the tax could help reduce carbon emissions and generate revenue for the government. The final decision will be revealed in the Spring Budget of 2023.
Number Plates
New number plates with green flashes will be introduced from October to distinguish electric and zero-emission vehicles from conventional ones. The green plates will make it easier for local authorities to identify and reward eco-friendly drivers with incentives such as cheaper parking or access to bus lanes.
The scheme is part of the government’s plan to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and encourage more people to switch to greener transport options. The Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, said that the green plates would also raise awareness and show people that “a greener transport future is within our grasp”.
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