Avoiding these common pitfalls isn’t just about escaping a fine – it’s about safety and keeping our roads running smoothly.

Ready for a refresher? We’ve highlighted five of the most frequently misunderstood UK driving rules that catch out even experienced drivers.

1. The yellow box junction dilemma

The yellow box junction is designed to prevent gridlock. The rule seems simple: You must not enter the box until your exit road or lane is clear.

The Trap: Many drivers forget the single, critical exception (Highway Code Rule 174). You can enter the box and wait if you are turning right, and you are only prevented from doing so by oncoming traffic, or by other vehicles also waiting to turn right. If you’re going straight ahead, however, your exit must be completely clear before you cross the line.

The Cost: Penalty charge notices (PCNs) for improper use can run from £70 to over £100, depending on the local authority.

2. The great pavement parking confusion

Is it okay to park with two wheels on the pavement to allow other vehicles room to pass? The law on pavement parking is stricter than many realise.

The Trap: Pavement parking is banned entirely in London and Scotland unless signs explicitly permit it. In the rest of England and Wales, you are currently allowed to park on the pavement unless a local Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) prohibits it (usually indicated by signs). However, under Rule 242, police or local authorities can still fine you if your vehicle causes an unnecessary obstruction or danger to pedestrians, especially those with pushchairs or mobility aids. The safest option is always to keep your wheels off the kerb.

3. Smart motorways and the red ‘X’

Smart motorways use technology to manage traffic flow, but the rules around them are non-negotiable and essential for safety.

The Trap: Seeing a red ‘X’ sign above a lane means that lane is CLOSED (Highway Code Rule 258). Many drivers assume they can continue until they reach the blockage. You can’t. The lane is closed to allow emergency services access or to protect people/vehicles ahead. Driving in a lane marked with a Red ‘X’ is extremely dangerous and illegal.

The Cost: Drivers caught ignoring a Red ‘X’ can face a minimum penalty of £100 and three penalty points on their licence, or more severe prosecution.

4. What’s the speed limit when towing?

For drivers towing a trailer or a caravan, knowing the reduced speed limit is crucial for stability and legality.

The Trap: If your vehicle is towing a trailer or caravan, the national speed limit is automatically reduced:

• Single carriageways: The limit is 50 mph (not 60 mph).
• Dual carriageways and motorways: The limit is 60 mph (not 70 mph).

This reduced limit applies to the combined vehicle and trailer, ensuring you maintain control and comply with the law.

5. Giving way to emergency vehicles (legally)

When an ambulance, fire engine, or police car approaches with sirens and lights, the first instinct is to panic and pull over immediately.

The Trap: While you must make way for emergency vehicles, you are never permitted to break the law to do so (Highway Code Rule 219). This means you must not:

• Drive into a yellow box junction where you would cause an obstruction.
• Cross a solid white line to pull over.
• Drive through a red traffic light.
• Pull into a restricted bus lane.

The correct action is to slow down, signal, and pull over safely where legal, allowing the emergency vehicle to pass without committing a driving offence yourself.

The post The Highway Code traps: 5 driving rules that catch everyone out appeared first on Veygo.

But knowing how (and when) to use your lights properly isn’t just about avoiding fines – it’s about being safe, seen and confident behind the wheel. Here’s a simple breakdown of what the UK law says about car lights, plus a few practical tips from the Veygo team.

1. Lights aren’t just for night-time

If you’ve just passed your test, it’s easy to think headlights are only for when it’s dark. In reality, you’ll need them more often than you’d expect.

Rain, fog, spray from the car ahead – anything that cuts your visibility means it’s time to light up. If you can’t clearly see the car in front (or they might struggle to see you), switch on your dipped headlights. It’s safer and it keeps you within the law.

Modern cars with daytime running lights (DRLs) help, but they don’t always illuminate the rear of your car – so check that your tail lights are actually on when conditions get murky.

Veygo tip: When in doubt, lights on. Nobody ever failed a journey for being too visible.

2. Night driving 101

As soon as the sun sets, your lights become your voice on the road – they show others where you are, where you’re going, and how fast.

Use dipped headlights whenever street lighting isn’t enough. Full beam is brilliant on unlit roads, but remember to dip them again if someone’s coming towards you, or you’re following another car. It’s just good manners (and keeps everyone’s eyesight intact).

You technically can drive on sidelights alone in well-lit areas, but it’s not worth the risk – most drivers just keep their dipped beams on for better visibility.

And if you’re heading out late, give your lights a quick once-over before you set off. It’s an easy way to spot a dead bulb before someone else does.

3. Brake lights and signals

Brake lights and indicators might seem boring, but they’re the reason traffic doesn’t collapse into chaos.

If a brake bulb goes, other drivers have no warning you’re slowing down. That can end badly – or at least earn you a stop from the police. Check them regularly (a quick reverse up to a window or garage door shows if both sides light up).

Indicators, meanwhile, are your way of telling everyone what’s next. Use them early, clearly, and always cancel after the turn. As for hazard lights, save them for when you’ve had to stop somewhere unusual or need to warn people of danger ahead – not for thanking someone or pulling up briefly.

Veygo tip: get in the habit of doing a ‘light walkaround’ whenever you refuel. It takes 20 seconds and saves you a fine.

4. Fog lights

Fog lights are like espresso shots: great in moderation, a bit much otherwise.

They’re designed for serious visibility drops – think thick fog, snow, or spray where you can barely see 100 metres ahead. If the fog clears, turn them off. They’re brighter than your regular lights and can dazzle drivers behind you. Using them in normal conditions might even earn you a fixed-penalty fine.

So: if you can see the car in front, you probably don’t need your fogs. Simple.

Quick recap

• Bad weather: Dipped headlights.
• Dark or poorly lit road: Dipped or main beam (but don’t dazzle).
• Fog or heavy snow: Fog lights on – and off again when clear.
• Every drive: Make sure your brake and indicator lights all work.

5. Keep your lights legal and working

Beyond knowing when to use them, it’s also about keeping them in good shape.

• Clean them regularly – dirt can cut their brightness by half.
• Check for cracks, condensation or loose fittings.
• Replace blown bulbs straight away (many garages will do this on the spot).
• Avoid coloured or tinted lights that could confuse other drivers – they’re illegal and could invalidate your insurance.

Veygo tip: Keep a spare bulb kit in your glovebox. They’re cheap, small, and can save your night drive.

6. How this fits with Veygo and you

At Veygo, we get it – young drivers juggle a lot. Maybe you’re driving home from a night shift, heading to a uni lecture in the rain, or borrowing a friend’s car for the weekend. Whatever the journey, visibility matters.

Good lighting habits keep you safe, lower your risk of accidents, and show you’re a responsible driver – which is exactly the kind of behaviour insurers like to see.

In short: your lights protect more than your car. They protect your confidence on the road.

Final checklist for younger drivers

Before your next drive, run through this quick list:

• Are all your exterior lights working (headlights, brake lights, indicators)?
• Are your headlights on when visibility is low, or when it’s night?
• Are your fog lights off unless visibility is really poor (under 100 metres)?
• Are your lights clean and aligned properly?
• Got spare bulbs handy?

Stay visible. Stay safe. And drive smart.

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• Insurance Group – Go for cars in Group 1–5 for cheaper premiums.
• Manual vs Automatic – Manual is more flexible for UK tests, but automatics are easier to learn on.
• Fuel Economy – Smaller petrol engines or hybrids are best.
• Used vs New – Many learners go for approved used cars to save money.

With the above in mind, here’s our list of popular cars that are perfect for learners in the UK.

Ford Fiesta

• Why it’s great: This has been the UK’s best-selling car for years — and for good reason. It’s super easy to drive, smooth clutch, precise steering, and has great visibility.
• Engine options: 1.0L EcoBoost is great for learners — good fuel economy without being too powerful.
• Insurance group: 2–8 depending on model.
• Extras: Some models come with rear parking sensors and Ford SYNC infotainment system.
• Common with instructors: Yes, many driving schools use them.

Perfect for: Learners who want to stick with the same car after passing.
Watch out for: Some EcoBoost models are pricier to maintain if buying used.

Vauxhall Corsa

• Why it’s great: Compact and nimble, ideal for tight UK roads. It’s a popular learner/instructor car too, with light steering and a comfortable driving position.
• Engine options: 1.2L petrol is ideal. Also comes in electric now (Corsa-e).
• Insurance group: 3–10 depending on model.
• Extras: Touchscreen infotainment, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto in newer models.
• Instructor-friendly? Yes, many schools use Corsas too.

Perfect for: Learners wanting a cheap-to-run, practical car.
Watch out for: Base trims can be basic on older models.

Volkswagen Polo

• Why it’s great: Feels more premium inside, but still compact. Very stable and composed on the road — ideal for more nervous learners.
• Engine options: 1.0L petrol – ideal balance of efficiency and power.
• Insurance group: 1–11 depending on trim.
• Extras: High-quality interior, great safety kit like emergency braking.
• Instructor-friendly? Some do use Polos, especially for automatic learners.

Perfect for: Learners who want something small but with a classy feel.
Watch out for: Higher running costs and insurance on GTI or R-Line trims.

Hyundai i10

• Why it’s great: One of the best true city cars. Super compact, really light steering, and extremely easy to park. Despite its size, it feels stable.
• Engine options: 1.0L or 1.2L petrol — ideal for short trips and lessons.
• Insurance group: 1–5.
• Extras: Good tech for a small car (on newer models), reversing camera on some trims.
• Instructor-friendly? Less common, but brilliant for private learning.

Perfect for: First-time drivers needing a small, stress-free car.
Watch out for: Smaller boot and cabin space compared to a Fiesta.

Kia Picanto

• Why it’s great: Shares a lot with the i10 (they’re basically cousins). Very reliable, well-built, and comes with a 7-year warranty.
• Engine options: 1.0L petrol.
• Insurance group: 1–4.
• Extras: Available with touchscreen, reversing camera, cruise control.
• Instructor-friendly? Not as common, but a very smart personal learner choice.

Perfect for: City learners or those looking for something new with a long warranty.
Watch out for: Lower-powered models can feel sluggish on motorways.

Toyota Yaris (especially Hybrid)

• Why it’s great: One of the most reliable cars. The hybrid version is super smooth and easy for learning in automatic. It’s also cheap to run and eco-friendly.
• Engine options: 1.5L hybrid (self-charging), also available in 1.0 or 1.3L petrol.
• Insurance group: 2–10.
• Extras: Reversing camera, pre-collision system, adaptive cruise on some models.
• Instructor-friendly? Very common for automatic lessons.

Perfect for: Automatic learners who want a long-lasting, stress-free car.
Watch out for: Used hybrids can be a bit pricier upfront.

Peugeot 208

• Why it’s great: French flair with a stylish interior and a comfy ride. Compact but doesn’t feel cramped. Newer versions have a fancy digital cockpit.
• Engine options: 1.2L petrol is ideal; also comes in full electric (e-208).
• Insurance group: 5–10.
• Extras: Digital dash, reversing sensors, Apple CarPlay.
• Instructor-friendly? Less common than others but a solid option.

Perfect for: Learners wanting something modern and techy.
Watch out for: Older versions may not feel as refined.

Renault Clio

• Why it’s great: Comfortable and easy to drive with good safety features. Has a quiet cabin and good ride quality for a small car.
• Engine options: 1.0L or 1.2L petrol – ideal for learners.
• Insurance group: 2–11.
• Extras: Touchscreen, lane keeping assist, reversing camera on newer trims.
• Instructor-friendly? Used occasionally for lessons.

Perfect for: Learners looking for a comfy car with style.
Watch out for: Earlier models had reliability issues — newer ones much better.

So, whether you’ll be driving a used car or buying new, there’s something for everyone. Just make sure that you take the time to get to know your car, you’re safe on the roads and that you take plenty of time while learning. Don’t rush to be test ready – follow Ready to Pass? hints and tips. Get some extra practice with Veygo’s flexible pay-as-you-cover or monthly rolling subscription as your prepare to get your pink licence.

If you’re a learner driver, read more on our flexible cover options and get a quote at Veygo.com.

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Everything is always changing in the world, and it always either seems to be progression or regression. So, with electric cars and the environment in mind, let’s talk about progression, specifically with electric cars.

 

Both the technology for electric cars and electric cars themselves have existed for quite some time, but like the wheel and the suitcase, they never seemed to exist together early enough.

 

Elon Musk and his brand of electric cars seem to have paved the way for popular mass-produced electric vehicles. Building a brand from the bottom up, starting with an electric sports car to eventually sell enough of them to start building and producing a cheaper Tesla model so that everyone will be able to have an electric car for themselves.

 

According to Heycar, we’ve been able to gather that the cheapest electric car on the market is Smart EQ Fortwo, looking at the specs and size of the car it’s pretty much designed for cities and towns. With that in mind, you’ll get a decent run around for the money you spend!

 

Auto Express gives us a tidy list of the electric cars that they believe to be the best out there in the UK. When referring to the list it’s somewhat important that you refer to it as a guide rather than a definite stance on which are the best electric cars to buy.

Let’s take a look at some of the electric cars we insure at Veygo!

Tesla
So, speaking of Elon Musk and his brand, let’s begin with Tesla. Being one of the first big names on the market and fully electric they’re considered a pioneer of mass-producing electric cars. They’ve been so successful with the cars that they’ve branched out into other fields of clean electricity!

 

Tesla’s aren’t only one of the first brands to produce all-electric cars but they also have superior battery technology, most miles covered in a single charge, and one of the fastest electric cars on the road, including a line of pickup trucks.

 

Renault
One of the more popular fully electric models that Renault do is the Zoe, there are plenty of different types of the ‘Zoe’ to choose from and it has also been voted ‘What Car?’ “Best Small Electric Car for Value 2021″

 

Perhaps not the most notorious brand for larger or more powerful cars but Renault has a wide range of electric vehicles ranging from compact city cars, all the way up to vans. Whatever your need for an electric vehicle, Renault is likely to cover you for a great price and great quality!

 

BMW
BMW has been a giant in the car industry for years and when it comes to electric cars, there’s no change! After the popularity of Tesla’s, BMW jumped on the bandwagon and released the ever-popular hybrid.. BMW i8.

 

However, we’re talking about electric cars, not hybrids. BMW has always marketed a classy, sporty car and nothing changes with their electric range. Don’t worry if you’re a fan of their bigger 4×4 cars, the iX xDrive40 and the iX3 have you covered.

 

Volkswagen
Having sold the most popular car across Europe, Volkswagen has certainly earned their name, as per their ‘classic’ range, you’re able to get all the excitement of their mechanical range within their electric range.

 

If you’re an avid Volkswagen fan, particularly the Golf, then switching to zero emissions shouldn’t be an issue for you! If you’re not someone who’s looking to buy the sought after Golf, again, you shouldn’t have any issues. Volkswagen has plenty of range from city cars and are super close to releasing an all-electric campervan based on their classic VW Camper.

 

Kia
A great option for those who are looking to get into driving electric, but don’t want to pay the prices of other brands like BMW and Audi. Launching their first line of electric cars in 2014 it only took them 4 years to win an award for ‘car of the year’ with What Car?.

 

Kia looks to give back with their cars, so you’re not just buying the car to look out for our planet. Each of their electric cars comes with regenerative braking, long distance-driving, the power to charge your car at home or in public, and a hefty 7 year warranty. Kia really is the people’s choice.

 

Audi
E-trons.. Audi’s futuristic-sounding line of electric cars. Again, like Volkswagen, it’s everything you could ask from their combustion engines, in their CO2 free engines.  Audi is a great option for electric cars as not only do you get the zero-emission engines, but you also get a sleek and stylish looking vehicle.

 

Why electric cars?

As previously mentioned the planet is warming up and running out of oil, so everyone is looking to cut back on their carbon footprint. One way for everyone to be able to achieve this is by swapping out fossil fuels for renewable energy.

 

Most people drive, (or are learning to drive) and driving is one thing people think of first when it comes to their consumption of fossil fuels so natural people will look to reduce their fossil fuel consumption there.

 

The stigma has now gone for electric cars being inconvenient. The batteries on electric cars now run for longer than you could need, charging points are becoming more and more accessible, and home charging is cheaper and better than ever!

 

Imagine the scenario, commute to work or the school run, you’re running late, and you notice that you’re too low on fuel.. Nightmares, you’re now later than you were before!

 

Now imagine this: wake up, you’re able to turn your car heater, or air con on from your bed (to heat or cool the car), get in and notice you have got a full battery, all because you went electric, convenience at its finest!

 

Pros

• At home and on the go charging
• Much cleaner energy and fewer emissions
• Savings made on tax and fuel
• Typically more advanced features
• Futuristic, you’re keeping up with the world
• Cleaner conscience (and air quality)
• Less risk of things going wrong/less maintenance
• Better take-off performance

Cons

• On the longest journeys, you may struggle to find a charging outlet
• Time to refuel is much longer than fossil fuels
• Currently more expensive to purchase than a fossil fuel car
• Arguably not as nice as the classic cars (despite classic models being remade with a battery)
• Some electric cars will ask you to unlock hardware features on the cars to increase performance.

 

As with most new things, there will always be teething problems, hence the cons, but this means it gives companies time to iron out the creases and look at what can be improved.

Incentives for going electric

Similar to the pros of going electric, there are some serious incentives for getting a ‘green’ car, some are as follows;

Government grants
You’ll be given a discount from the vehicle manufacturer or dealership off the total price of the car when purchasing. To find out more about the grants for your low-emission car visit GOV.uk.

 

UK roadmap
Very similar to the grant incentive by GOV.UK, this roadmap intends to get all cars zero emissions from the tailpipe by 2035, so by purchasing electric now you get ahead of the game!

 

Features
The features that come with an electric car aren’t just driving benefits, you also have a great console to control your car from, wirelessly or whilst in the car. Tesla to name one of the few are mounted with a 17″ tablet, and it’s not just a sat-nav or movie player like most cars, it has the full capability of a pc being able to access all the car’s features.

 

Here’s a list of the quirky features that you’d be able to get if you purchased a Tesla!

 

Using Tesla again as an example, the driving features may be just as incredible as the computer features they have. Tesla can produce things like ridiculous horsepower, insane torque, and a huge mile coverage all in their batteries and engines! Access to their full specs are on the Tesla website for a full breakdown (as it will be for most car manufacturers).

 

If you know someone with an electric car and fancy giving it a spin, Veygo offers a great rate on temporary car insurance that’ll allow you the opportunity to give it a go and see for yourself!

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What are windscreen pillars?

If you’re learning to drive you may have seen some potential theory test questions related to windscreen pillars. If you’ve stumbled upon this article, you’re probably wondering “what are windscreen pillars?” and we’re going to answer that for you. Plus, we’ll run through the potential theory test questions and how to answer them.

What are windscreen pillars?

Windscreen pillars are the upright posts that frame your windscreen. Sometimes referred to as ‘A’ pillars, windscreen pillars are there to reinforce the windscreen and hold it in place.
Most cars have 3 pillars, known as A, B and C. Some bigger cars even have a fourth ‘D’ pillar. The windscreen pillars (A) are located at the front of the car.

Can windscreen pillars cause accidents?

In modern cars, windscreen pillars are generally wider than they used to be. Especially in big cars like minivans and SUVs. That’s because as cars get bigger and heavier, car manufacturers need to increase the structural integrity of the car. To get more structure and support, bigger windscreen pillars are often used.

However, this design can be potentially dangerous by blocking the driver’s view. Some motorists have blamed windscreen pillars for causing accidents due to the blind spots created. The problem has been recognised by the industry with car brands such as Continental creating ‘see-through’ A pillars.

If you’re driving someone else’s car, it’s important to figure out where the potential blind spots are. That way you can check your bling spot by moving your head to look around the pillar before turning.

When do windscreen pillars cause obstruction?

Windscreen pillars cause the most obstruction when driving on bends, roundabouts and junctions. That’s because other road users can be hidden from view when you’re turning. This can particularly be an issue with pedestrians and cyclists because the blind spot impacts a narrow field of vision.

If you’re answering this question on your theory test, remember that turning is what causes the most severe obstruction. It’s less of an issue when you’re driving on a straight road, for example when you’re driving on the motorway or approaching a one-way street.

Learning to drive?

If you’re learning to drive, you might find it helpful to get some extra practice outside of your lessons. With our learner driver insurance, you could get cover on your own car or borrow one from a friend or family member.

It’s totally flexible and you can be on the road in minutes! If you borrow a car from a friend or family member, make sure you check where the blind spot is from the windscreen pillars on their car as every car is different.

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