Driving under the influence of both legal and illegal drugs is an issue that is growing on all measures in the UK - collisions and casualties have gone up by over 260 per cent over the last ten years, and convictions are now at over 12,000 a year. The impact is devastating, far-reaching, and only getting worse, said IAM RoadSmart. This issue was brought to the government’s attention in 2011 … [Read more...]
Welsh police step up breath-tests
Drivers in Wales are far more likely to be breath tested in December than any other month. Analysis of Home Office data by personal breathalyser firm AlcoSense shows that in December last year 4,551 motorists were stopped by Police across Wales on suspicion of drink driving. This was nearly a fifth of the total for the entire year. North Wales led the way with 1,906 tests, followed by South … [Read more...]
Widening threat to historic vehicles
Classic cars are under threat from towns and cities imposing varying "clean air" zones. FIVA, the Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens or international federation of historic vehicles, is lobbying the European Parliament to recognise the threat to our cultural heritage. “While FIVA fully supports the move to a greener and more sustainable future,” states FIVA president Tiddo Bresters, … [Read more...]
Permits and green card dilemma for UK drivers
British drivers are facing a dilemma taking their vehicle abroad in the New Year. The EU is holding back on its requirements for UK drivers' licences and insurance but it looks increasingly likely they will need international driving permits and the old style "Green Card". Both will need to be obtained in advance of crossing the Channel or they driver and vehicle will be turned around and … [Read more...]
A third of drivers break law on phones
GoCompare Car Insurance has revealed that 34% of drivers use their mobile phone illegally while in their car, with the figure rising to a shocking 58% of 18-24 year old drivers. The research reveals that more drivers are tempted to use their phone while waiting in traffic, with the number of drivers using their phone behind the wheel reducing to 25% while actually moving. However, the … [Read more...]
Welsh Government loses clean air case
Welsh Government has failed people and not implemented EU law on air quality, a judge has ruled. Now it must come up with a clean air plan by May and implement it through councils before August. This is likely to lead to rapid introduction of vehicle restrictions on some roads where measured pollution is above safe limits. Parts of South Wales are known to be above limits and the court … [Read more...]