Are You Aware of the Key Changes to the Highway Code?

You might remember that back in January 2022 we wrote a blog how some of the changes to the Highway code had left drivers confused.

Well, you can imagine our surprise that recent reports suggest that UK motorists are still not clear on the changes that were brought in over two years ago.

So as a refresher, on 29 January 2022, the Highway Code was updated with a new rule that puts more responsibility on those who can cause the most harm to others on the road. This rule is especially important for drivers of vehicles like lorries, vans, buses, cars, and motorcycles because they can cause the most damage in a crash.

The main idea is that these drivers have a greater responsibility to be careful and protect those who are more at risk, such as pedestrians and cyclists.

Other rules introduced alongside the hierarchy seem to have been better understood by the driving public. For example, drivers are aware that they should allow cyclists to pass on the left before making a left turn and that when overtaking cyclists, they should leave at least 1.5 metres of space at speeds up to 30mph, and even more space at higher speeds.

However, there is still some confusion surrounding other aspects of the Highway Code. For example, not everyone seems to know that cyclists are advised to ride two abreast in certain scenarios, or that the national speed limit for towing a trailer or caravan was reduced to 50mph on single carriageways.

This mix of awareness and misunderstanding highlights the need for drivers to stay informed about the rules of the road. Understanding the Highway Code is crucial. Not only does it ensure your safety, but it also contributes to the safety of all road users.

If you’re unsure about any recent updates to the Highway Code, take the time to review it here. It’s a small effort that can make a big difference on the road.