'Most' drivers don't know of Highway Code changes

A majority of drivers are unaware of Highway Code changes one year after they were introduced, a survey suggests.

A YouGov poll for charity Cycling UK indicates there has been no discernible improvement in awareness by drivers of the correct distance for overtaking cyclists.

The Highway Code was amended on January 29 last year to provide more protection for vulnerable road users.

It states motorists should leave a gap of at least 1.5 metres when driving at up to 30mph, with a wider gap at higher speeds.

Other changes included advice to cyclists to ride in the centre of lanes on quieter roads, in slower-moving traffic and when approaching junctions, and created a hierarchy of road users – meaning drivers have more responsibility to watch out for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.

The data found 25% of 2,168 drivers surveyed knew "nothing at all" about the amendments, and just 30% of respondents who had “some awareness” of the update could correctly identify the overtaking guidance.

Cycling UK chief executive Sarah Mitchell said: "A year on since the update, the lack of understanding and knowledge of the changes is alarming.

"If widely adopted, these changes can save lives and make the roads better for everyone - but we need Government commitment and investment in a long-term awareness campaign of at least three years to help change long-established driving behaviour."

She added: "With more people looking for other ways to travel, whether for financial reasons, health or environmental, making our roads safer for their most vulnerable users is essential."