Drivers ‘unaware’ of the Highway Code
UK motorists ignorant of new changes to driving regulations
Wearea nation of drivers,but alarmingly, new research has revealed that over half of drivers across the UK are shockingly ignorant about the rules of the road. The UK highway code changed on January 29, 2022, yet a new study of 2,000 UK drivers shows that more than 50 per cent of drivers cannot even identify one of the new rules.
Although 60 per cent of drivers are aware that the highway code was updated in 2022, less than a third have refreshed their knowledge of its rules. In fact, a high 44 per cent of drivers admitted that they have never refreshed their knowledge of the code since passing their driving test.
Only half of UK drivers claim to be aware that 70 mph is the national speed limit on the motorway and almost a quarter admit to surpassing this speed in 2022.
And when it comes to the new rules that drivers are least familiar with, more than two thirds don’t know that traffic should give way when people are crossing or waiting to cross a junction.
Furthermore, despite the fact that cycling has grown hugely in popularity in recent years, 64 per cent of motorists don’t know that they should give way to cyclists who are riding ahead on the road and not using a cycle lane.
The new rule that drivers were most aware of is that they must give way to pedestrians and cyclists on a parallel crossing.
It states within the new highway code that drivers are prohibited from holding or using their handheld device for anything, even if the vehicle isn’t moving.
While 41 per cent of respondents correctly identified this new rule, 15 per cent thought that motorists could check mobile notifications and alerts when driving.
The study shed light on motorists’ knowledge of well-established highway code rules, with only 38 per cent of drivers knowing to allow a two-second gap between themselves and the vehicle in front.
Offering insight as to why so few drivers know the new rules, 45 per cent said it is difficult to stay up to date with the highway code, while 38 per cent of UK motorists said the code is essential for being a good driver.
A spokesperson at Vertu Motors, who conducted the research, said: “Understanding and keeping up to date with the Highway Code is vital for ensuring that all road users stay safe, and motorists are driving according to the latest laws.
“It is surprising that so many in the UK have not refreshed their knowledge of the code either when it was last updated, or even since they passed their driving test.
“Regardless of how experienced a driver you are, you should always keep up to date with the Highway Code. Re-read the rules at least once a year to make sure you and other road users are kept safe.”
More information about the research can be found at: https://www.vertumotors.com/