It has just turned to August and with that comes not only the last month of summer but also a host of new changes to the driving laws in the UK. The changes that are happening include costs on heavy goods, a ban on pavement parking and the expansion of ULEZ in London.
Drivers need to be aware of these changes that are coming into force as breaking these laws could land drivers with a hefty fine if they aren't aware. Below is a round-up of the changes and how they will affect all motorists, not just in London but in the whole country.
ULEZ expansion
The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is expanding across all London boroughs from August 29, 2023. After this date, if you drive anywhere in the ULEZ and your vehicle does not meet the emissions standards, you could face a daily charge of £12.50. Residents living inside the zone will still have to pay, although you don't have to pay the fee for a parked car - only if you actually drive it.
If you don't pay the £12.50 fee, you could face a hefty fine. ULEZ and Congestion Charge penalty charges have increased from £160 to £180. The fine will be reduced by 50 per cent if you pay it within 14 days. There are some discounts and exemptions, and an extended 'grace period' to help disabled Londoners and community transport providers prepare for the expansion - find out more here.
Pavement Parking Ban
A self-explanatory change as cars will now be banned from parking on the pavement nationwide. The ban has been in talks since 2019, but it is expected to come into force this summer.
If this law is enforced drivers could face a £70 fixed penalty notice for parking on a pavement.
HGV levy payment
Heavy goods vehicles weighing over 12 tonnes already pay a levy cost for the wear and tear on the roads. However, this payment has been suspended since the pandemic as a way for the government to help haulage companies reduce costs and tackle driver shortages.
This August, the HGV levy suspension will end in the UK and freight companies will have to go back to paying the levy costs.
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