That could affect you
now being strengthened by fines.
Following law changes in March, motorists could be fined for not leaving enough space between a vehicle and a bike.
Failure to do so could land you with a £100 fine and three points on your licence.
Police forces across the country are being encouraged to penalise those who drive dangerously close to cyclists.
Underinflated tyres; Contaminated brake fluid; Brake pad warning lights and missing brake pads or discs; Reversing lights (for vehicles newer than September 2009); Daytime running lights (for vehicles newer than March 2018). Some things won’t change though – the government considered lengthening the wait for a vehicle’s first MOT from three to four years, but it will now remain unchanged.
The tax rates of diesel cars were increased from April 1 of this year. This applies to the Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), usually known as road tax.
Instead of being fixed at £140 per year, VED rates will now be calculated based on the car’s carbon dioxide emissions.
The highest raise of first-year tax is £500, for cars which emit between 191 and 225g of CO per year. However, those which emit the more environmentally-friendly 111 to 130g/km will only see their tax go up by £40. as gagging clauses, were originally used to protect intellectual property but they are often used to silence claims of harassment and bullying.
Recently qualified drivers could also face changes once they have passed, with the government even considering bringing in a graduated driving licence.
Currently, new drivers who have been behind the wheel for less than two years face stronger penalties for offences like using a mobile phone.
However, a whole range of restrictions could also be imposed. The government is considering fines of up to £100 for motorists who drive on lanes which have been closed on a smart motorway.
These lanes are shown by red Xs on automated signs above the motorway, and are used when there is a blockage or accident to prevent further incidents. Any drivers who ignore the signs in future to take advantage of a clear lane could face fines.
The government is expected to announce that offenders will face £100 fines and three points on their licence.