Staying up to date with the latest Highway Code and road regulations is essential, especially with a new wave of greener aspects to consider.
Most recently, drivers in cities across the UK may have noticed changes to rules when driving in urban areas. If you haven’t seen it yet, the change is regarding low-emission zones.
Low-emission zones are slowly being introduced in areas that have the most pollution. Of course, we all know that the capital has several zones, including a congestion charge, low and ultra-low emission zones. But other locations are following suit.
This is a significant change for drivers, as you could be charged if you enter a low-emission zone. The consequence of not checking if your vehicle meets emission standards is a fine of up to £500!
So, how can new low-emission zones lead to greener motoring?
It might feel like the government is just charging you extra on top of the already high costs of running a car. In fact, the bigger picture of lower emissions is at the forefront of this change.
Reducing pollution means working towards cleaner air, which makes living and visiting urban areas better for everyone. The costs of entering these zones also may bring change to what consumers choose to buy in the future. Ultimately, switching to electric vehicles could save you money on running costs and when driving into low-emission zones.
The more cities that implement low-emission zones, the more likely people are to think about greener motoring.
What cities have low-emission zones?
If you drive into a low-emission zone, there are plenty of warnings. But currently, four cities have these regulations – Birmingham, Bath, Bradford and Portsmouth.
Low emission zones or Clean Air Zones are implemented to reduce the pollution levels in specific areas. For example, London has several different charging zones. But other cities only cover particular areas of the location depending on pollution levels.
Cities such as Bristol, Newcastle and Sheffield, are introducing a Clean Air Zone in the future. These will primarily affect older cars, vans, lorries, and buses.
Changes to London’s emission zones could also come to fruition from summer 2023. Plans currently include making the ultra-low zone broader, which ultimately means it will encompass most of the city. Other plans to implement a single charging payment scheme are also under consideration.
How do I know if I’m entering a Clean Air Zone?
If you live in and around the areas with Clean Air Zones, you will notice numerous signs stating the start and end of these areas.
However, before you get caught out when travelling to any city, it’s best to check whether you need to pay the CAZ fee. Just enter your registration number into the gov.uk CAZ checker.
Different cities have different charging zones. So, if your vehicle has to pay a charge in Birmingham, it may be different for Portsmouth as they only charge coaches, buses, taxis and private hire vehicles.
Other Highway Code changes that reduce pollution levels
It’s not just low-emission zones that you need to be aware of. Other changes are being trialled in a bid to lower pollution levels.
The most notable change is varying speed limits. There’s evidence to suggest that travelling at lower speeds reduces overall emissions. So, some areas where air quality is significantly affected are subject to a 50mph speed limit. Currently, these reductions in speed limits affect some motorway stretches and A-roads in Wales.
However, the National Highways Agency also started trialling a 60mph limit in numerous areas – stating that initial analyses show a reduction of around 17% in emissions when lowering the speed to this level.
In built-up areas, drivers may also see more 20mph limits come into play. Several locations, such as Cambridgeshire, Surrey and Wales, have introduced a lower speed limit to reduce accidents and pollution.
You’ll see new signs indicating the limit when speed limit changes occur. So, it’s essential to take note. Otherwise, you could end up breaking the law.
Could Clean Air Zones encourage more people to transition to electric?
It’s not yet clear whether CAZ and low-emission zones will impact people’s decision to buy an electric car. However, with overall EV uptake increasing, the results look promising for a greener motoring future.
This issue is that currently, most Clean Air Zones only apply to specific vehicles. So, most cars will still drive freely through the city without charges. Only the most polluting and often larger vehicles, such as buses and coaches, see the brunt of the fees.
Furthermore, people are also calling for better access to affordable public transport. Ultimately to reduce pollution in big cities and urban areas, there needs to be a reliable and affordable rail and bus service. This negates the need for a car altogether, thus, improving air quality and congestion.
Currently, cities see more people hop in the car for the commute because public transport doesn’t serve their needs. EV infrastructure is also lacking, so consumers may be hesitant to buy one despite it saving costs on CAZ charges.
Keep up to date with the latest driving regulations
More and more changes are inevitably coming as the government moves forward with its Clean Air Strategy. Alongside the current Clean Air Zones, other cities have the scheme under consideration, which could lead to further restrictions on where the most polluting vehicles can drive freely.
With all this change, staying on top of the latest driving regulations is essential, so you’re not caught out. Our blog offers the latest news and updates. However, if you’re unsure of anything, it’s best to check out gov.uk for a complete guide on the Highway Code and new driving laws.
