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Motoring Essentials

Our Motoring Essentials hub is your go-to area for advice that makes the everyday stuff that bit easier. Whether you're trying to nail a tricky parallel park, understand UK road law, or keep your car in the best condition, our guides below break it down in plain English. 

You'll find practical tips on routine car maintenance, confidence-boosters for driving in poor weather, and smart ways to cut your running costs without cutting corners. 

Each guide is easy to follow, quick to scan, and genuinely useful, so you can apply what you learn to real life. Whether you're a new driver learning the ropes or a seasoned commuter, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is here to help. 

Motorway laws

The rules governing motorway use including safe and best practice on joining, driving and leaving.
Motoring Essentials
Updated 15th Oct 2022
Cars driving on a motorway

Parking law

We take a closer look at the laws surrounding parking with guides on where you can and can’t park.
Motoring Essentials
Updated 5th Oct 2022
Row of parked cars in a sunlit urban setting

Seatbelts

The penalties for not using a seatbelt and who is responsible for ensuring passengers are wearing a seatbelt.
Motoring Essentials
Updated 29th Dec 2022
Hand holding seatbelt

Smart motorways

How smart motorways work, which UK roads have them and how you can best use them.
Motoring Essentials
Updated 14th Apr 2021
The drivers guide to Smart Motorways

UK road safety report

Our road safety report reveals the safest locations, times, and conditions for British drivers, based on data between 2013 & 2020.
Motoring Essentials
Updated 4th Aug 2022
Cars stuck in traffic

Drink driving

We explain how to stay safe on the road after drinking, including how long to wait before driving.
Motoring Essentials
Updated 11th Aug 2022
close up of group of friends clinking glasses
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