Newsletter May & June 2017: New Laws!! Drivers to be aware of...

Lead Times

This may seem a little crazy to some but we are now advising customers to start thinking about their new vehicle purchase up to 6 months in advance. As a lot of new car buyers are often shocked when they find out just how long lead times are, this varies dependant on the manufacturers, model and extras required. Average lead times on most popular manufacturers; Audi, BMW, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes and Volkswagen can be anywhere from 12 - 20 weeks, this can be the same for commercials. Not sure how long the lead time for your required vehicle will be - please just give us a call to find out.

New Laws!! - Drivers Be Aware of:

Since 1st March 2017, there are tougher penalties given out to anyone caught using their mobile devices (including tablets) whilst driving. This is to cut down the number of accidents caused by motorists who are texting and phoning whilst in the drivers seat. You now get 6 points on your driving licence, as well as a £200 fine. If the driver has held his or her licence for 2 years or under and are caught on their phone they could have their licence revoked.

Speeding

From 24th April 2017 it was announced that speeding fines will be increasing for more serious cases. The new speeding system is split into three bands which rate the severity of the offence based on the speed limit. Following a review, the current maximum fine which is capped at £1000 will rise to £2500 if you are caught speeding way over the limit on the motorway. However, the current minimum fine of £100 looks to stay the same, as does the amount of points given being 3 on your drivers licence.

Car Seats

Also earlier in the year, new rules came into effect that meant child car seat manufacturers would not be able to introduce new models of booster cushion for children shorter than 125 cm or weighing less than 22 kg. These new regulations have been introduced as it is recommended that high-backed booster seats offer more protection against accidents than backless seats do. For more information of if you are unsure which is the appropriate car seat for your child, visit www.childcarseats.org.uk.

New Company Websites

We have decided after 65 years of business it was time to refresh our company websites; aclfinancegroup.co.uk and for quality used cars cfcsales.co.uk - Please feel free to have a look around our new websites and feedback is always welcome.

Charity Events

The ACL ladies are already gearing up to start their yearly charity events with the regular Pretty Muddy and Macmillan coffee morning and the new addition this year being Alzheimer's - cupcake day - watch this space for photos.