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Big changes are on the way for drivers in 2022- including an addition to the Highway Code.
Some new rules will apply to motorists’ conduct while behind the wheel, while there is also set to be a new crackdown on parking on pavements.
There are also tougher rules around using mobile phones, the Express reports.
Here’s what you need to be aware of when you’re taking to the roads in 2022:
Tougher laws on using phones
Other than in an emergency, it is already illegal to call or text using your phone while driving.
And from January 1, drivers will not be allowed to take photos or videos, scroll through playlists or play games on their phones when driving.
Anyone caught using their device while driving will face a £200 fine and six points on their licence.
Drivers can still use devices such as satnavs and mobile phones using satellite navigation – if they are safely secured in a cradle.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Too many deaths and injuries occur while mobile phones are being held.
“By making it easier to prosecute people illegally using their phone at the wheel, we are ensuring the law is brought into the 21st century while further protecting all road users.”
Following the public consultation, the government will revise The Highway Code to explain the new measures. It is understood that the loophole will be closed in mid-January.
There will, however, be an exemption to the new law for drivers making a contactless payment using their mobile phone while stationary to ensure the law keeps pace with technology.
New council fines for minor traffic offences
Councils could previously only send out penalties for parking and driving in bus lanes.
But from the spring, local authorities in England and Wales will be able to fine drivers up to £70 for offences such as stopping in a yellow box junction, illegal turns, driving in cycle lanes and ignoring signage.
Parking on pavements
Scotland has already passed a new bill to outlaw all parking on pavements from 2023 – but tougher rules could be applied in 2022 elsewhere.
Parking on the pavement is illegal in London but changes to the law are expected this year.
It could give councils across England and Wales the power to issue on-the-spot £70 fines to those who mount the kerb.
The Government held a consultation on the issue in November 2020.
Speed limiters on cars
All new cars from July 6 will be built with speed limiters. with Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) black boxes using GPS to work out what the speed limit is and will then ensure the car doesn’t break it.
The rule is an EU law passed in 2019 when the UK was still part of the EU – but the rule isn’t in place in the UK. Instead, it will apply to cars made in the EU and bought in the UK.
Vehicle Excise Duty increase
Road tax will increase in 2022, but the Government has not confirmed the new rates.
You will still pay according to how much CO2 your vehicle emits.
Those that emit zero grams per kilometre of CO2 are expected to continue paying zero, while petrol- and most diesel-powered drivers (including hybrids) that emit between 1g and 50g per kilometre will pay £10 for the first 12 months.
Cars that emit between 51g and 5g per kilometre currently pay £25 for the first year.
The Highway Code and road hierarchy
For the first time, the law will require those who could cause the greatest harm to other to bear the responsibility of reducing danger.
This means that someone driving a car is more responsible than a cyclist for the safety of both parties.
The new hierarchy is as follows:
- Pedestrians
- Cyclists
- Horse riders
- Motorcyclists
- Cars/taxis
- Vans/minibuses
- Large passenger vehicles/heavy goods vehicles
Clean air zone charges
London’s Clean Air Zone, also known as the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), currently charges drivers of the most polluting vehicles £12.50 a day on top of any congestion charge fees.
On October 25, 2021, the area expanded up to the North and South Circular ring roads, affecting more drivers with some of the most polluting vehicles.
In 2022 Greater Manchester and Bradford will introduce their own Clean Air Zones.
The First Zero Emission Zone will also be piloted in Oxford – charging all but electric vehicles who enter eight city centre streets.
Newcastle city centre, Sheffield and Bristol will implement a similar policy in July 2022, also affecting Gateshead and North Tyneside – but it will not charge car drivers.
For more stories from where you live, visit InYourArea.
