Seven new driving laws that could come into effect next week

A number of new laws could be introduced in April affecting all motorists.

Drivers are being warned about the change in rules that if broken could land you with a fine.

As expected, VED and purchase tax will change in April.

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But there are also new rules to follow while you're behind the wheel, including the usage of mobile phone devices and portable electricals.

We've rounded up all the new changes set to be brought in next month.

Mobile phone ban

Strict new rules will come into place aimed at mobile phone users behind the wheel.

Drivers could risk a £200 fine and six penalty points for holding their phone while driving.

Strict new rules will come into place aimed at mobile phone users behind the wheel. (Picture posed by model) (Jonathan Brady/PA Wire)

The new ban replaces a loophole that allowed people to take photos and videos while driving without being penalised.

This is due to be introduced in the coming months after a consultation period ended on January 17.

Pavement parking

Currently, it is illegal to park on the pavements in London. This could be extended nationwide, according to reports.

Drivers breaking restrictions face fines of up to £70.

Fuel duty

This will once again be frozen for the new tax year, keeping at the same rate for the 10th year in a row.

Fuel duty is a tax that currently stands at 57.95p per litre of petrol, diesel, biodiesel and bioethanol.

This was confirmed by Rishi Sunak.

VED

Vehicle Excise Duty is changing once more from April 2021.

Purchase tax

It will be aimed at petrol and diesel car owners to make environmentally-friendly vehicles more affordable.

The purpose of the tax is to make environmentally-friendly vehicles more affordable while those whose cars emit more than 225gCO2/km will be required to pay a 50 per cent purchase tax from this year, which would increase in instalments.

'Benefit in Kind'

Drivers may have to pay as much as £390 per year to use their vehicles due to BiKs reintroduction.

A 1% charge, based on income rates and vehicle value, could find many drivers with zero-emission models caught out, a charge that will likely increase to 2% in 2022.

Driving lessons

Driving lessons can begin again from April 12 and practical driving tests can resume from April 22 at the earliest.