Important changes to the Highway Code: Everything you need to know
The changes are designed to help prevent accidents – but if you’ve ever been involved in one, Bonnar Accident Law can help
Almost two years ago, changes to the Highway Code were announced.
But despite this, many drivers remain unaware of the scale of the changes, amongst which exists a new ‘Hierarchy of Road Users’ which will prioritise the most vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians.
This puts more responsibility on the drivers of larger vehicles, including cars, to look after the more vulnerable road users.
The aim of these changes was to improve road safety and help prevent accidents. At Bonnar Accident Law, the professionals know only too well the devastating impact a road traffic accident can have on individuals and their loved ones. Where pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists are involved, unfortunately, the injuries sustained are often very serious – which is why these changes to the Highway Code are so important.
What are the changes?
- Pedestrians will have increased priority at junctions over all other road users. This includes a requirement for other road users to give way to pedestrians crossing, or waiting to cross, the road. This gives them quite a big responsibility to be aware of pedestrians, even at the side of the road, and anticipate that they may choose to cross.
- Cyclists can choose to ride in the centre of their lanes in certain situations, such as on quiet roads, or at the approach to junctions. Drivers should not cut across cyclists or horse riders going ahead when turning into or out of a junction, or changing direction or lane, to prevent ‘left hook’ collisions.
- Drivers should open their car doors using the ‘Dutch reach’ method, with the hand on the opposite side to the door they are opening. This will force drivers to turn their heads to look over their shoulders, and reduces the likelihood of hitting passing cyclists with their doors.
- Drivers should leave at least one and a half metres when overtaking cyclists, and more if driving above 30 miles per hour. More information is available here, or you can refresh your driving knowledge by reading over the Highway Code.
If you’re unfortunate enough to have been involved and injured in a road traffic accident and wish to seek advice, the specialists at Bonnar Accident Law are on hand to listen and support you. They have significant experience in handling road traffic accidents, and are well versed in both the legal requirements and advisory behaviours that road users should adhere to.
The team offer a free, no obligation initial consultation, whether by telephone, video conferencing or in person – with either a visit to your home or at their Airdrie office, serving the Lanarkshire area.
In some cases, they can act on a completely no win, no fee basis, or under Legal Aid if you qualify.
To get in touch, call the team on 01236 756188 or email them at info@bonnarandco.com.
