Following a public consultation from July to October 2020 generating more than 20,000 responses, changes have been made to the Highway Code from 29th January 2022 onwards. Fifty rules have been added or updated over nine sections of the Code. However, the requirement for all road users to behave responsibly is not diminished.

The updated Highway Code now refers to a “hierarchy of road users”, the purpose being to ensure that the road users at the top of the hierarchy are those most at risk in the event of a collision.

Under the new rules labelled H1, H2 and H3 cyclists will have more responsibility to be aware of pedestrians whilst drivers have more responsibility to look out for people cycling, riding a horse or walking.

The updated code also includes provisions for drivers turning into a road to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross, where pedestrians have started crossing and the vehicle driver intends to turn into the road, pedestrians crossing have priority and car drivers, motorcyclists and cyclists must give way to pedestrians on a zebra crossing and pedestrians and cyclists on a parallel crossing. There is also clearer guidance for drivers to leave a distance of at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists.

Another important recommendation is what is known as the Dutch Reach technique. This is a method for car users to utilise when opening the car door. The car user is advised to use their hand on the opposite side of the door when opening it as this should lead to them looking over their shoulder, reducing the risk of opening a door into the path of a cyclist or another road user.

Overall, there is an overriding duty that all road users are aware of the Highway Code, are considerate to other road users and understand their responsibility for the safety of others.

The Highway Code is not just for learner drivers and it is updated regularly so it is important that all road users remain aware of any changes. Some of the rules contained within the Highway Code are legal requirements and breaches could lead to prosecution for criminal offences. In addition, a failure to follow the Highway Code rules could be relied upon to establish liability in civil proceedings.

The full version of the Highway Code can be freely accessed on GOV.UK with the updated version showing from 29 January 2022. You can also download the Highway Code iOS app at a cost. The Highway Code book, however, is not expected to be available until April 2022.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code
https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/the-official-dvsa-highway-code/id522687241

If you have suffered injuries arising from any road traffic accident, please contact our specialist personal injury team to speak directly to a qualified and experienced lawyer.