How to avoid getting caught out on the roads in 2019

There are a few new laws coming into effect this year, so don’t let yourself get caught out. Whether you’re a learner driver, recently qualified or have years of experience on the roads, there are new laws coming in that will affect you. We’ve compiled a list of what’s changing so you won’t be facing any fines or points in 2019.

Changes in your MOT

Alongside new categories for your car to fall in, an MOT will now include a handful of new legal requirements. These will include the inflation of your tyres, brake fluid, reverse lights and daytime lights for cars made after March 2018. Make sure you keep this in mind before your next MOT so that you have the best chance of passing.

The new categories let you know the condition of your car. If you fall into advisory or minor, you’ve passed and are legal to drive but be aware that your car might need some repairs. Falling into major or dangerous means you’ve failed, as your car is a risk to the road.

Keep clear of cyclists

From March onwards, motorists are expected to leave at least 1.5m between their car and a cyclist. Not sure how much that is? It’s around the width of your car door, so if you can open your door and it would touch the cyclist you’re too close. Failing to do this will land you with a £100 fine and three points on your license. Keep safe and keep your distance – the further away you can be the better.

Tougher rules for new drivers

While nothing is official yet, the government are working towards imposing new restrictions on recently qualified drivers. This is set to include curfews, number of passengers in the car, engine size their car can have and mandatory P plates. This will be piloted in Northern Ireland but if it works then we could be seeing it in the near future.

In a move to better learner driver’s understanding of the roads, they will now be allowed to drive on the motorway as part of their lessons. This may seem a little daunting, but they must have an instructor in the car with control of the pedals on their side. This doesn’t change the test requirements – learners will not need to drive on the motorway to get their license. But it will give them a bit more experience on the roads with the comfort of an instructor.