The changes to the Highway Code for 2022

The Highway Code is something all road users should be well aware of. It includes everything you need to know about being on the road, with all of the laws, advice and information required to safely get around.

It’s not a static document, though, and is occasionally updated based on new learnings. For 2022, a series of updates have been introduced, largely focused on priorities for everyone from pedestrian st oHGVs.

However, despite the Departmentfor Transport insisting‘ all road users are aware’ of what’s happening, the AA has warned that two-third soft he 13,000 people it polled before Christmas did not know changes were coming.

Here’ s everything you need to know about what’ s new ahead of their introduction at the end of January.

What’ s the key change?

The main focus has been on creating a ‘hierarchy’ of road users, giving priority to those that are more vulnerable. It means those who can do the greatest harm to others have a higher level of responsibility to reduce thedanger.

As an example of this, it is the responsibility of a card river to be aware of cyclists.

What else has changed for vulnerable road users?

One that has a good chance of creating some confusion–especiallyif not everyone is aware of it –is a new rule surrounding crossingpriorities for pedestrians.

Now, when a car is turning into a road or exiting a road, they should stop to let pedestrians cross.

What about turning across cyclists and horse riders?

Now, there’s direct guidance that says you should not turn across the path of a cyclist or horse rider that is continuing ahead on the same road.

In practical terms, it means you should not overtake them shortly before turning left, insteadwaiting and pulling in once they have passed the junction.

How much of a gap should we leave when over taking cyclists?

Speaking of overtaking cyclists, new rules designed to further protect two-wheeled road users suggest that you should leave 1.5 metres when overtaking at speeds of up to 30mph. You should give them even more space when over taking at higher speeds.

What’ s the‘ Dutch Reach ’?

When opening the door when parked, it’ s recommended that you use the opposite hand to the one closest to the door, reachingacross your body. This means you naturally check what’s coming and reduces the risk of opening your door on a cyclist.