Road Traffic Act 1972

The Road Traffic Act 1972 (c. 20) is an act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. It consolidates earlier road-traffic legislation and introduces provisions governing driving offences, licensing, insurance, vehicle use, and road-safety powers.

Background

The act was passed to consolidate existing road-traffic laws and implement recommendations from the Law Commission and the Scottish Law Commission.

Provisions

Amendments and later impact

• Transport Act 1980, which amended parts of the 1972 Act.
• Road Traffic Act 1988, which replaced or repealed several provisions.
• Section 36B (pavement-parking ban) originated in this Act (via amendment in 1974).

Reception and legal commentary

• Academic commentary has analysed how the Act defined "reckless" and "dangerous" driving.
• The Act supports the Motor Vehicles (Third Party Risks) Regulations 1972.

Notes

References

External links