Safety first for most vulnerable road users

The Highway Code has been revamped for the first time in 50 years in a bid to make roads safer for cyclists and pedestrians.

A total of nine sections of the code have been updated to give priority to pedestrians and cyclists in West Lothian and beyond.

The change in regulations means those who can cause the most harm on the roads will bear a higher burden of responsibility to prevent accidents and increase awareness.

It is hoped this change in hierarchy of road users will see fewer injuries and deaths on our roads after the rules came into force at the weekend.

But some experts believe the new rules aren’t clear enough for all road users.

Paul Loughlin, solicitor specialising in motoring law at Stephensons, said: “There is no doubt that better protection for more vulnerable road users has been long overdue and the changes in the Highway Code will go some way to close that gap.

“There has been much debate since the announcement of these rule changes as to whether they now go too far the other way.”

But Jason Wakeford, head of campaigns at Brake, the road safety charity, welcomed the changes.

He said:“The introduction of a road user hierarchy is so important for road safety. It means it is clear that road users who can do the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the risk they pose to more vulnerable users, such as pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.

“It’s vital that Government works hard to promote the Highway Code changes, to help all road users understand the new rules and our shared responsibility to reduce deaths and serious injuries.”