Driving Law Changes in 2022
Updates to driving laws and the highway code will come into force later on this year. As we get stuck into the new year, drivers should be aware of the new rules. These updates aim to make driving safer for all road users. At the end of 2021 and as we head into 2022, there are a few changes that drivers need to know.
1. Using your Phone
A new law will come into effect later on this year to discourage drivers from using their phones while behind the wheel. Some areas have already seen an increase in police taking action against drivers who use their phones while driving. It’s illegal to use your phone to text or make a call while driving under the current law. The new rules will make it illegal to use your phone for taking photos, scrolling through a playlist, or playing a game while driving. But you can still use your phone to call 999 in an emergency. Any driver caught using their phone could face a £200 fine and 6 points on their license.
2. Priority on the Roads
Updates to the Highway code will see a new ranking of priority when it comes to the safety of other road users. Rule H1, Rule H2, and Rule H3 will have updated regulations. This will rule rank road users based on how at-risk they are in the event of an accident. Pedestrians will have the highest priority on the road. on the other end of the scale, drivers of larger vehicles such as HGVs will have the most responsibility. Rule H2 will see drivers giving way to pedestrians at pedestrian crossings. Rule H3 gives priority to cyclists at junctions and when changing lanes. These updates are due to come into effect from January 29th, 2022.
3. Red Diesel
New restrictions on who can use red diesel will come into action from April 1st, 2022. This will limit who can use red diesel and biofuel and what for. Operators can still use Red diesel for agricultural machinery, sports clubs, and rail transport. The penalty for using red diesel unlawfully includes having the machinery seizing and fined what you would owe. These new restrictions aim to promote more sustainable fuels to reach the Governments climate targets by 2050. Keep up to date with all the latest driving news via our website or on our app.
Useful Links
DVSA – https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/driver-and-vehicle-standards-agency
Highway Code – https://www.gov.uk/browse/driving/highway-code-road-safety
Driving Law Changes in 2022
