2018 sees many new driving laws come into force, while other established laws are set to change. Staying on top of changes could help you avoid breaking any laws in the future. Smart motorways (which used to be called managed motorways) are the ones that run over four lanes with gantry signs overhead. They provide real-time speed limits to better regulate the flow of traffic. The fourth lane can be opened and closed at discretion to relieve congestion further. The new law applies to anyone driving in a closed lane on a smart motorway. It is already illegal, but the new law carries a new fixed penalty for drivers who do drive in a closed lane. From 4 June, learner drivers can drive on the motorway. They’ll only be allowed with their instructor as long as they’re in a vehicle with dual controls. This will pose a new risk for other road users that could affect underwriting considerations in the future. It’s at the instructor’s discretion to take a learner on the motorway, and won’t be included on the test.
