Did you know that changes were recently made to the Highway Code in an attempt to better protect road users deemed to be most vulnerable?
If not, you’re not alone.
A recent survey revealed that more than half of Brits were unaware that any alterations had been made regarding what is expected of them whether driving or cycling on roads, or even walking next to them.
Given millions of people may now be driving to out-of-date guidance, should a change in the Highway Code come with refresher driving lessons? Let’s take a look.
What Are The Changes To The Highway Code?
Eight major changes were made to the Highway Code in April 2022.
- Hierarchy of road users: In a nutshell, it goes Pedestrians > Cyclists > Drivers. Those at the most risk of injury in an accident go to the top.
- Rules at junctions: Waiting pedestrians now have right of way at a junction – even if a car is planning to turn into it.
- Guidance for shared spaces: Much of this new advice centres on cyclists passing pedestrians – they must now do so in a considerate manner.
- Cyclists’ road position: Guidance now states that cyclists should position themselves closer to the centre of a lane.
- Overtaking: The minimum space you should leave when overtaking a cyclist at 30mph as 1.5 metres. This is extended to two metres for pedestrians and horse riders.
- Cycling at junctions: Cyclists must give way to pedestrians but are to act as though they are driving a vehicle if cycle-specific facilities are not in place.
- Cycling at roundabouts: Overtaking cyclists on a roundabout is advised against for motorists and motorcyclists.
- Parking: A technique called the ‘Dutch Reach’ is now advised to help avoiding injuries to motorists passing or pedestrians.
How Could Refresher Lessons Help?
Even the fact that some people are aware of the changes can lead to problems.
A road user might know some of the changes, but not others and this lack of consistency on the roads could lead to more accidents and an increase in the likelihood of personal injury claims being made if road users are deemed to be negligent.
By mandating refresher sessions for people – whether it’s practical lessons, or something classroom based – can at least increase the chances of more people understanding what changes have been made and why they’re being implemented.
What Else Do People Make Of The Changes?
The study from National Accident Helpline also revealed:
- Just 25% of people thought that changes would make roads safer
- 47% of 16-24-year-olds were aware of at least one change – with social media visibility being largely to thank
- 34% said that they found the Highway Code too difficult to follow