November 2008 saw the launch of a consultation into proposed new road traffic laws for the UK. If implemented they would see a number of new provisions being introduced, the increase of a number of exisiting penalties and, most controversially, the increasing of police powers to penalise drivers for speeding. In this summary, keepmedriving looks at those proposals and how it might affect motorists.

Parker’s, producers of the Car Price Guide, have warned that thousands of motorists risk losing their licences and endangering the lives of others because they rely on the cheap do-it-yourself breathalysers.

Many thousands of motorists are unnecessarily risking prosecution resulting in fines of up to £1,000 and putting at risk their insurance cover, simply because they are driving without a valid licence. Unlike the old paper licences, all photocard driving licences must be renewed every 10 years – even though drivers are licensed to drive until the age of 70.

The Government plans to introduce tougher new penalties to deal with speeding and other forms of excessive road behaviour.

The government’s latest Christmas drink-driving campaign is to be backed up by a £1m series of radio advertisements in addition to the TV campaign, released last year, which combines Christmas songs such as Silent Night with images of car crashes.

Only Finance reports that Tesco Insurance has warned drivers in the UK about making alterations to their cars which could invalidate their car insurance policy unless they inform their insurer of the modification.

Money News reports that the British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA) has said the £30 levy on car insurance policies to cover uninsured drivers could be reduced.

If you have been convicted/sentenced in the Magistrates Court, you may be able to appeal to the Crown Court to see if you can have your conviction overturned or your sentence reduced.

Technically yes, as the only people allowed to drive through red lights are the emergency services.

No, random breath tests cannot be carried out by the police. However, they are permitted to stop a driver without needing to give an explanation and then carry out a breath test .