All the road rules and changes that came into effect in the UK in 2021

In the year that saw new approaches to sustainability and climate change through COP26, driving laws were introduced to help push towards a greener country.

Many other road rules were introduced, and the car leasing experts at LeaseElectricCar.co.uk have provided a run down for motorists.

Extensions made to the UK’s Clean Air Zones laws have meant hybrid cars are no longer exempt from London’s Congestion Charge.

Clean Air and Zero Emissions Zones have expanded beyond London and been introduced in other major cities.

Expansions include a Low Emission Zone in Birmingham and a Clean Air Zone in Bath.

Looking towards 2022, drivers can expect charges to come into force in zones in Greater Manchester and Bradford.

A spokesperson from LeaseElectricCar.co.uk said:

“2021 has been a busy year for lots of us, with new covid lockdowns, government briefings and lots of new laws making it hard to keep up!

“As we approach 2022 we think it is important to look back over the year and round up important new motoring laws to avoid motorists being caught out in the new year.”

New laws surrounding the introduction of green number plates, which are used to make zero-emission vehicles more visible, help to establish which drivers can freely utilise these zones.

Green number plates, distinguished by a green bar down the left hand side, are part of the Government’s Road to Zero strategy which will see the sale of new diesel or petrol cars phased out by 2030.

Incentives to drivers with green number plates could include access to bus lanes and cheaper parking as well as free entry into zero emission zones.

As well as the introduction of laws to help tackle climate change, there have been other road laws introduced over the past year including those pertaining to mobile phones use.

Although it has been illegal to use a phone while driving since 2003, there was a legal loophole that allowed drivers to take photos and videos from behind the wheel.

New 2021 laws make it illegal for motorists to use their phone for any purpose while driving - even while stationary.

Law breakers could find themselves £200 out of pocket with six points on their licence.

Brexit has also contributed to new road laws, with British drivers now having to carry a physical copy of a green card, their driving licence and have a GB sticker on the rear of their vehicle if hoping to drive in the EU.

The past 12 months also saw 33 Highway Code rules changed following a £338 million investment into walking and cycling.

The Highway Code’s new Hierarchy of Road Users is now prioritising pedestrians over drivers, resulting in 33 rule changes and two brand new rules introduced.

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