The Highway Code 2022:
8 Key Changes for Safer Roads
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Introduction
The Highway Code has undergone significant updates effective January 29, 2022, aimed at enhancing the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders. These changes, resulting from a thorough public consultation, apply across England, Scotland, and Wales. Over 20,000 responses were received during the July to October 2020 review, with broad public support for the proposed alterations.
Hierarchy of Road Users:
The introduction now includes three new rules outlining the ‘hierarchy of road users.’ While prioritizing the safety of vulnerable users, it emphasizes the collective responsibility of all road users to behave responsibly.
People Crossing at Junctions:
The updated code provides clarity on giving priority to pedestrians crossing at junctions. It emphasizes yielding to those already crossing and underlines the obligation of drivers, motorcyclists, and cyclists to yield to individuals on zebra and parallel crossings.
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Shared Spaces for Walking, Cycling, and Riding Horses:
New guidance encourages mutual respect among users of shared spaces. It highlights considerations for cyclists, horse riders, and drivers of horse-drawn vehicles, urging caution and awareness of pedestrians’ potential limitations.
Positioning When Cycling:
Cyclists are advised on strategic road positioning, including riding in the center on quiet roads and maintaining a safe distance from the curb on busy roads. Group cycling etiquette, passing parked vehicles, and cautionary measures are also addressed.
Overtaking Guidelines:
The updated code specifies safe passing distances for drivers overtaking cyclists or horse riders. It introduces necessary details for overtaking at varying speeds and emphasizes waiting behind when safe passing is not feasible.
Cycling at Junctions:
New advice for cyclists at junctions includes guidance on using special cycle facilities, turning right in two stages, and asserting priority when going straight ahead. Safety recommendations are provided for cyclists approaching junctions without separate facilities.
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Roundabouts for Cyclists, Horse Riders, and Drivers:
Clear rules have been outlined for drivers and motorcyclists yielding to cyclists on roundabouts. Special attention is given to avoiding cutting across cyclists, horse riders, or drivers of horse-drawn vehicles when entering a roundabout.
Parking, Charging, and Leaving Vehicles:
A novel technique, the ‘Dutch Reach,’ is recommended for exiting vehicles to enhance safety for cyclists and pedestrians. Additionally, guidelines for using electric vehicle charging points stress considerations for pedestrians and fellow road users.
Conclusion
These changes, encompassing 50 updated or new rules across 10 sections, reflect a commitment to improving road safety. It is crucial for all road users to familiarise themselves with the revised Highway Code to ensure safer and more responsible journeys.
Stay Informed
Regular updates to The Highway Code are essential for all road users. Ignoring these rules can result in legal consequences, and adherence is crucial for establishing liability in court proceedings. The full updated version of The Highway Code is available, and hard copies can be obtained online or at high street bookshops.
Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/the-highway-code-8-changes-you-need-to-know-from-29-january-2022
