The new Highway Code rules will come into force from January 29 and will look to set out a “hierarchy of road users”. This will ensure that road users who can do the greatest harm, like cars, vans and lorries, have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger they may pose to others.
Bryn Brooker, Head of Road Safety at Nextbase, spoke about the new Highway Code changes and what it will mean for all road users.
He said: “These changes to the Highway Code come at a really uncertain time for drivers, with Covid rules beginning to relax and work from home guidance ending, the UK roads will once again start to see an increase in traffic.
“The response we are getting from motorists on these changes is most certainly mixed, with opinion divided around the uncertainties that surround its implementation.
“For example, how do these changes account for a growing number of E-scooters on UK roads?
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The rules are being changed to help promote walking and cycling as the Government moves towards a net-zero future.
This comes as the Government aims to make cycling and walking the natural choices for shorter journeys, or as part of a longer journey by 2040.
In May 2020, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced the largest ever boost for cyclists and pedestrians with an investment of £2billion to help relieve pressure on public transport.
Mr Brooker added: “Firstly, we recommend that drivers always remain vigilant and give way to pedestrians who are clearly waiting to cross at any junction that you plan to turn into, as these new changes now give priority to them.
“Secondly, drivers should open car doors using the ‘Dutch reach’ method, with the hand on the opposite side to the door they are opening.
“This makes drivers turn their heads to look over their shoulders and reduces the likelihood of ‘dooring’ a passing cyclist, an offence which these changes now place the fault on the driver.
“As these new changes put more pressure on motorists to keep those who are more vulnerable on the road safe, we recommend that motorists install dash cams to protect themselves.
“A dash cam acts as an independent, unbiased witness in the event of a collision, providing drivers with an extra layer of evidence and protection.”
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, had previously said the Government had been “far too silent” in promoting the rules.
The new guidance includes a number of new rules including increased safe passing distances and speeds, as well as ensuring that cyclists have priority at junctions when travelling straight ahead.
A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “The proposed upcoming changes to The Highway Code will improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, with those who present the most risk to other road users given the greatest responsibility in creating a safer travel environment for all.
“The Department has established a working group of key organisations to ensure that messages about the changes are as widespread as possible and our well-established THINK! campaign will continue to ensure all road users are aware both when these changes come into effect and beyond.”
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