UK Proposes New Roadworks Bill to Reduce Congestion

Motorists planning a trip to Spain should be aware of new driving rules set to take effect in January 2025, including regulations on lane usage in adverse weather and the emergency corridor rule to facilitate emergency vehicle access. The DGT also announced that motorcyclists will be allowed to use hard shoulders in heavy traffic, albeit at a restricted speed. Meanwhile, in the U.S., California and other states are enforcing strict 'chain control' regulations during winter storms, with fines up to $1,000 for non-compliance. In the UK, Ford has criticized the government's electric vehicle sales mandate, calling it 'unworkable,' reflecting a broader industry struggle with declining electric vehicle demand. Concurrently, Conservative MP Mark Francois has proposed a Roadworks Bill aimed at empowering local councils to refuse disruptive roadworks and impose substantial fines on companies that cause traffic issues due to overruns. This bill intends to ease congestion and enhance road user experience by holding companies accountable for delays.