Drivers up and down the country are being urged to make themselves aware of some major changes to legislation that will impact all road users in 2015.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has outlined some of the biggest changes in a bid to ensure vehicle operators are fully aware of what is going on in the sector.

So far this year, the Department for Transport in partnership with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency has already introduced new online-only licence checking services, as well as the scrapping of the paper counterpart to the driving licence.

In addition, new drug-drive laws have now been rolled out and speed limits for heavy goods vehicles have also been amended.

However, the remainder of the year has plenty more in store that drivers will need to know about, including:

• The launch of the new Safer Lorry Scheme for heavy goods vehicle operators in London to better safeguard vulnerable road users.
• Implementation of the new 'Make a Plea' service that will enable motorists charged with minor offences to respond to the charges made against them digitally.
• Smoking in cars carrying children under the age of 18 is to be made illegal from October 1st, with potential fines and penalties to be announced closer to the launch date.

IAM chief executive officer Sarah Sillars said: "This year has seen some of the biggest changes in motoring procedures we have ever seen. It is very important drivers and riders are fully up-to-date on what is happening – they will affect everyone in one way or another. So don't get caught out, get informed."