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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Dayna McAlpine

New UK driving laws coming into force in September drivers need to know

Motorists are being encouraged to read up on the latest driving rules set to come into place from Thursday 1 September.

Changes coming into action include a tightening of the laws around mobile phones and new speed limiter rules.

Experts at LeaseCar.uk have provided advice on the upcoming changes to the Highway Code.

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A spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk said: "It is really important for all drivers to keep an eye out on the changes to motoring rules this summer. No-one wants to be landed with a fine or severe driving penalty by simply not staying updated on new regulations."

Here's everything you need to know, as reported by ChronicleLive:

Speed Limiters

The Government announced that this summer will require all new cars to be fitted with a speed limiter. This device is installed on cars and will restrict the engine power so the vehicle does not pass a certain speed; but drivers will still be held responsible for sticking to the speed limit.

These speed limiters will improve road safety for all users, and will be a step forward for the development of self-driving cars in the UK.

Mobile Phone Usage

Closing a previous loophole, it is now illegal for UK motorists to use their mobile phones for any purpose, even whilst stopped at a red light. Before the recent update, drivers could scroll through playlists and take photos, claiming they were not using devices for ‘interactive communications’. Now, there will be more safety for road users, and those who are caught could be landed with a £200 fine and six points on their licence. And, drivers who have passed their test within two years could lose their licence entirely.

Transporting goods into Europe

Introduced at the end of May, drivers will now need a licence to carry goods for hire/reward into the EU or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The standard international goods vehicle licence will be required for light good vehicles, vans, and cars/vans towing trailers.

Clean Air Zones

Also known as Low Emission Zones, several cities across the UK have introduced this ruling to help the air quality in the local area, as well as reducing harmful emissions. Manchester introduced the scheme at the end of May, with Newcastle planning to follow suit later this year.

Scottish cities such as Dundee, Aberdeen and Edinburgh will also introduce Clean Air Zones in the next few years. Depending on the type of vehicle and how old it is, drivers will be charged a fee for travelling within the Clean Air Zone.

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