As we enter 2025, the importance of road safety remains a top priority for businesses. With advancements in automotive technology, changes in traffic laws, and the continued emphasis on sustainable vehicles, the way we navigate our roads is evolving. However, one thing remains constant: the need to protect lives by driving safely.
Whether you're a taxi driver who travels locally, or an HGV driver covering hundreds of miles a day, understanding the latest safety guidance can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
This article highlights the changes in legislation and provides strategies for businesses looking to improve road safety in 2025. By adopting these practices, we can contribute to safer roads and a more secure driving environment for everyone.
Safety legislation
New safety legislation was introduced in June 2022 but many businesses are unaware of how it impacts them and their drivers.
You can now receive a custodial sentence if you cause serious injury by careless, or inconsiderate, driving, this includes broken bones and lacerations. The sentence for causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving has also increased to a maximum of life imprisonment.
Police are attending more road incidents since the enforcement of this new legislation. So, the chance of you now being charged with a criminal offence has increased. This makes drivers even more vulnerable on the road, as they can unintentionally incriminate themselves if an incident occurs.
We held a Trial by Roadside event to highlight the potential consequences this legislation has on both drivers and employers.
Tips to keep you safe on the road in 2025
Driving can be very dangerous, and you must ensure that you play your part in acting safely on the roads. Here are 5 top tips which you should follow to stay safe on the road in 2025:
- Embrace Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): if possible, businesses should utilise vehicles equipped with ADAS features like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies can help prevent accidents on the road.
- Stay focused and minimise distractions: with the rise of in-car technology, it's crucial to stay focused on the road. Distractions, such as your phone, eating, or adjusting the radio can impair your ability to react to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions, potentially leading to serious accidents.
You should also avoid driving when you’re overly tired or if you’ve taken medication which can cause drowsiness.
- Adopt eco-friendly driving practices: not only is eco-friendly driving good for the environment, but it also promotes safer driving. Smooth acceleration and braking, maintaining a steady speed, and avoiding aggressive manoeuvres can reduce the risk of accidents.
- Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists: as urban areas become more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly, always be vigilant. This is particularly important for HGV drivers who have limited peripheral vision, so you should use your indicators to warn other road users of your intentions.
If you travel in London, you’ll also need to ensure you meet the Direct Vision Standard, as it indicates your level of risk to road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists.
- Stay updated on traffic laws and regulations: road safety regulations can change, especially with new technologies and urban planning. Regularly review local traffic laws and stay informed about any updates to ensure compliance and safety.
Discover our comprehensive guide to the upcoming laws for HGV drivers.
H2: Benefits of Right Protect
Prioritising road safety in 2025 is essential for protecting drivers, employers, and other road users. By following the guidance above, you can minimise the risk of a road accident, keeping yourself and others safe.
However, should the worst happen, and you are involved in an incident, you’ll need the proper support.
That’s why we offer our customers, Right Protect. This is an exclusive service which provides drivers with a 24/7 legal helpline, so you can speak to a solicitor at the scene.
The main benefits of Right Protect include:
- Immediate legal support in the event of a blue light incident which is when many drivers are at their most vulnerable
- Prevents you from incriminating yourself or your employer at the scene of a road accident
- Additional legal protection that’s often not covered by insurance legal cover
- Available nationwide, day or night
- Only costs £2 a month per card
Sign up for Right Protect today or contact our team to find out more.
