Navigating the UK’s roads means keeping pace not just with traffic, but with the rules of the road themselves. While 2024 hasn’t seen a single, seismic “Highway Code” overhaul like 2022’s H2 introduction, a series of crucial updates, clarifications, and enforcement changes have come into effect. For both car drivers and motorcyclists, understanding these changes is essential for staying legal, safe, and avoiding penalties.
Here’s your clear, actionable guide to what’s new and what you need to know.
Part 1: Key Updates for Car Drivers & All Road Users
1. The Strengthened Hierarchy of Road Users
Introduced in 2022, the Hierarchy of Road Users remains the most significant conceptual shift in decades, and its practical application is now being emphasized in enforcement and awareness campaigns.
- What it is: A legal principle placing greater responsibility on those who can do the most harm (e.g., HGV drivers) to protect the most vulnerable (e.g., pedestrians and cyclists).
- What it means for you in 2024:
- At Junctions: You MUST give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross at junctions you are turning into. This is now a firm rule, not just good manners.
- The “Dutch Reach”: When opening your car door, use the hand furthest from the door (e.g., your left hand to open a door on your right). This forces you to look over your shoulder for passing cyclists and motorcyclists. While not a specific law, it’s the recommended method to avoid “car dooring” offences.
- Overtaking Cyclists/Horses: You should leave at least 1.5 metres space when passing cyclists (Rule 163) and at least 2 metres for horses, at speeds under 10mph. This is being more actively promoted by safety campaigns.
2. Smart Motorway Rules: Clarity and Stricter Enforcement
With the halt on new “All Lane Running” smart motorways, focus has shifted to clearer rules and tougher penalties on existing ones.
- Red ‘X’ Means Closed Lane: It is now a criminal offence to drive in a lane closed by a red ‘X’ sign. Camera enforcement is widespread, leading to fixed penalties and points.
- Emergency Refuge Areas (ERAs): If you break down, you must try to reach an ERA. If you can’t, pull as far left as possible, turn on hazards, and get out via the passenger side (if safe) and behind the barrier. Your safety is paramount.
3. Clean Air Zones (CAZ) and ULEZ Expansions
These are local authority schemes, not national laws, but they affect millions.
- The Trend is Expansion: London’s ULEZ now covers all London boroughs. Other cities like Bristol, Bath, Sheffield, and Tyneside have active zones. Always check before you drive into a major city.
- How to Check: Use the official UK Government Vehicle Checker to see if your vehicle is compliant and to find all active zones nationwide.
4. Mobile Phone Law: Closed Loopholes
The law was tightened in 2022, and its full scope is now well-established.
- It is illegal to: Hold and use any mobile device while driving, even if stopped at lights or in traffic. This includes checking messages, taking photos, playing games, or scrolling through playlists.
- The only exceptions: Making a contactless payment at a drive-through, using a phone as a parking ticket device while already safely parked, or using a hands-free system without holding the device.
Part 2: Critical Updates for Motorcyclists & Scooter Riders
1. New MOT Test Checks for ‘Tampering’ (From 2024)
A significant update for powered two-wheelers (PTWs).
- The Change: MOT testers are now specifically checking for illegal tampering or modifications.
- What they’ll look for:
- Exhaust Systems: Aftermarket systems must be marked as “E-marked” or “British Standard” compliant. Removing baffles or fitting excessively loud ‘straight through’ pipes is likely to result in a fail.
- Number Plates: Incorrectly sized, spaced, or non-reflective plates will be flagged.
- Other Modifications: Any modification that adversely affects safety or emissions.
- Action: Ensure any modifications are legal and have proof of compliance (e.g., manufacturer certificate).
2. Increased Focus on Rider Safety in Highway Code
The Hierarchy of Road Users protects motorcyclists too.
- Positioning for Safety: Rule 88 is emphasised: riders should position themselves to be seen (e.g., in the centre of the lane) and to improve their view of the road, especially at junctions and roundabouts.
- Driver Awareness: The onus is on car drivers to look properly for motorcycles when changing lanes or at junctions. As a rider, however, you must still ride defensively, assuming you haven’t been seen.
3. E-Scooter Trials & The Law Reminder
Privately-owned e-scooters remain illegal to use on public roads, pavements, and cycle lanes. Their use is restricted to ongoing, government-approved rental trials in select areas. Using a private scooter publicly can lead to fines, points, and seizure.
Part 3: General Changes & Enforcement Trends
- Higher Penalties: Fines for many traffic offences continue to rise. The emphasis is on “Band B” and “Band C” fines linked to income for more serious offences.
- Dash Cam/Helmet Cam Submissions: Police forces actively encourage the submission of video evidence of dangerous driving via official portals. “Nextbase National Dash Cam Safety Portal” is a key service used by many forces.
- Zero-Tolerance on Drink/Drug Driving: Enforcement via roadside screening is increasingly common. The message remains clear: None for the road.
What Should You Do Now? Your Action Checklist
- Revisit the Highway Code: Spend 30 minutes browsing the official Highway Code online, focusing on junctions, overtaking, and pedestrian priority.
- Check Your Vehicle’s CAZ/ULEZ Status: Use the government checker tool to avoid unexpected daily charges.
- Motorcyclists: Review Your Modifications: If you have an aftermarket exhaust, check it is E-marked. Ensure your MOT centre is aware of any modifications.
- Adopt the “Dutch Reach”: Make it a habit today to protect cyclists and riders.
- Plan for Smart Motorways: Mentally rehearse “Red X = do not enter” and “breakdown = get out, behind barrier”.
Conclusion: Adaptation is Key to Safety
The evolution of UK driving law reflects a clear trend: prioritising the safety of vulnerable road users and adapting to new technology and vehicle types. For the informed driver and rider, these changes aren’t a burden but a blueprint for safer, more considerate road use.
Staying updated isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about contributing to a safer road culture for everyone. The responsibility is shared, but the knowledge is power.
Disclaimer: This guide summarises key changes and trends. For definitive legal wording, always refer to the official Highway Code and GOV.UK motoring legislation pages. When in doubt, seek clarification from a certified driving instructor or legal professional.
