What are the changes coming to the Highway code in 2022?
A change to the hierarchy has been made. Cyclists will be given a lot more priority when it comes down to the roads.
Motorists will have more responsibility over pedestrians and cyclists when it comes down to junctions.
The new hierachy involves drivers making a 'Dutch Reach' when opening doors, this means reaching over with the opposite arm in order to see more around the car door.
The Dutch Reach is primarily aimed at protecting cyclists, but will also ensure drivers are able to spot vulnerable road users as they open their doors to get out of the car.
Another big change will be that pedestrians get stronger priority at junctions, turning cyclists will now also get priority over drivers when at a junction, changing direction or changing lane.
A spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk said: “Every sensible motorist knows that exceeding the speed limit and drink driving is illegal and dangerous.
“Many won’t realise, though, that new rules are constantly being added to the Highway Code. Their amends are usually quite straightforward, but the reminder never hurts.
“The laws make being a road user safer and it’s important for every driver to understand the updates. The Highway Code has more than 300 rules and many people don’t give the 150-page book a second thought after passing their theory test.
“Some of their recent amendments, like asking drivers to ‘focus on the road ahead when passing an incident’ are generally common sense, but it's better to be written down.
“Acknowledging, applying and sharing these new and updated rules could save a life.”
If approved, the changes will come into force on 29th January 2022.
