Whether you’ve just passed your driving test or you’ve been cruising the roads for decades, it’s important to remember the laws around driving in the UK. Regardless of how long you’ve been driving, it’s easy to forget what you can and can’t do on the road, and something which seems minor at the time can become a serious issue if you’re caught doing something you shouldn’t.
The UK’s Highway Code has just been updated, and as these changes came into effect on 29th January, you may not even be aware of them yet. Plus, there are always those long-standing rules you may need a refresher on.
In this article, we outline some of the driving laws you need to know to stay safe on the roads.
Mobile phones & sat navs
In the UK it is illegal to drive while holding a mobile phone or sat nav, including when stopped at traffic lights, queueing in traffic or supervising a learner driver. If caught breaking this law, you risk receiving 6 penalty points on your licence and a £200 fine. If you passed your driving test in the last two years, your licence will automatically be revoked.
Speeding
In the UK it is illegal to driver faster than the speed limit for the type of road and your type of vehicle. The speed limit shown is the absolute maximum speed you’re allowed to drive, but you must consider the current conditions and drive accordingly. This may mean driving below the speed limit at times. The minimum penalty for speeding in the UK is a £100 fine and 3 penalty points.
Letting pedestrians walk out in front of you
The new Highway Code which came into effect on 29th January this year states you must allow pedestrians to cross the road in front of you when you’re stuck in traffic or moving slowly. Anyone who wishes to walk across the road in this scenario is entitled to, and this rule also applies to cyclists wanting to cross the road in front of a slow-moving car.
Tyre tread depth
Not only is having the appropriate tyre tread depth a safety precaution, it’s also a law you must adhere to. In the UK tyre treads for cars, light vans and light vehicles must be 1.6mm, while treads for motorcycles, large vehicles and passenger-carrying vehicles must be 1mm deep.
For all vehicles, there must be tread across the middle three-quarters and around the circumference of the tyre. Choose quality tyres such as Michelin tyres which are designed with safety in mind. Not having the legally required tread depth is considered “driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition” for which you can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and receive 3 penalty points.