New ways to fail your MOT, more motorway fines and fresh laws on cyclists

Motorists face a wave of changes to road laws that they need to be aware of in the New Year to avoid fines. 

These include a requirement to leave enough space when overtaking cyclists, and a range of new standards for MOT tests. 

But there are also some new freedoms for drivers, such as the ability for learner drivers to use motorways if accompanied by an instructor. 

Changes to the Highway Code include: 

Overtaking cyclists

Drivers need to leave enough space for cyclists when they overtake them or face a £100 fine. The Highway Code states there should be 4ft 11in (1.5 metres) between the car and cyclist - around the width of a car door. 


Learners on motorways

People learning to drive will not be able to use motorways if accompanied by an instructor. Previously, they were only allowed to do so after getting a licence. 

Smart motorways

The government is considering a £100 fine for drivers who use lanes marked 'x' in smart motorways. Lanes are closed if there is an accident ahead. Using them could also result in points being docked from you licence, under new proposals. 

There are also new categories for cars going through a MOT. These are: 

Dangerous - Direct or immediate risk to road safety or the environment. Leads to a Fail.

Major - Could affect the vehicle’s safety, put other road users at risk or affect the environment. Fail.

Minor - No significant effect on safety, but should be repaired as soon as possible.

Advisory - Could become more serious in the future.

Pass - Meets the current minimum legal standards.





MailOnline