Motorists warned of others ‘towing for the first time’ as major law changes two weeks away

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Driving laws around towing a caravan or trailer are changing on November 15, as the Government looks to relax the rules. Currently the law states that drivers who passed their test after January 1, 1997, need to take a test before towing a trailer or caravan.

If caught, drivers can be fined £90 and have six points added to their licence.

The car and trailer driving test, or B+E test, was stopped on September 20, 2021, following a public consultation.

Drivers needed to take the practical exam in order to tow a trailer or caravan on the roads.

Following the change, drivers who passed their car test on or after January 1, 1997, can drive a car or van up to 3,500kg MAM towing a trailer of up to 750kg MAM.

Towing can be dangerous, with many industry experts fearing for road safety as some drivers will not be experienced with towing such a heavy load.

With October marking Tyre Safety Month, drivers are urged to check their tyres are safe for use when towing or in bad weather as winter approaches.

According to ONS data in 2018 there were 459 road traffic accidents caused by tyre defects.

Jonathan White, Legal and Compliance Director at National Accident Helpline, warned drivers to take care when driving or towing this winter.

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He said: “Here at National Accident Helpline, we’re urging people to take extra care when they set off on their car journeys this time of year.

“We know it’s important to keep our tyres in check and oil topped up, but it’s also important that everyone is aware of the latest changes.

“We’re also advising to take extra care if you will be towing a caravan or trailer for the first time.

“While we understand the alterations, it does mean there will be drivers towing for the first time on our already busy roads.”

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