The Highway Code applies to all road users in England, Scotland and Wales. Here are some of the key ways you can stay within the highway code as a driver to ensure legal compliance and safer driving.
Understanding the Hierarchy of Road Users
While all road users should be aware of one another and follow the rules of the road, ‘the hierarchy of road users’ sets out which users are most likely to be harmed in a collision and places those most at risk at the top.
Since pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders are more likely to be injured, they are at the top of the hierarchy. At the other end of the spectrum, are drivers of large goods or passenger vehicles, such as minibuses and vans, as their vehicles are the most likely to cause harm so they bear the greatest responsibility.
However, it’s important to reiterate that everyone using the road has responsibility for their own and other road users’ safety.
Navigating Junctions and Roundabouts Safely
Junctions and roundabouts are common places for accidents to occur. When approaching a junction or roundabout, you need to be aware of other road users and not assume that you know which way they are turning, or vice versa!
Vulnerable road users are especially at risk at junctions and roundabouts and priority should be given to pedestrians waiting to cross at junctions, as well as to cyclists and horse riders.
Never cut in front of a cyclist or rider when turning at a junction or moving around a roundabout. The highway code states that cyclists, horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles can stay in the left-hand lane if continuing across or moving around a roundabout. Pay attention to hand signals which will let you know whether or not they intend to leave the roundabout at the next exit. If they aren’t, you should hang back rather than cut across to make your own exit.
Overtaking and Safe Distances
When overtaking other road users you should be aware of the mandatory safe passing distances.
Cyclists
Keep below 30 mph when overtaking cyclists and maintain a distance of no less than 1.5 metres.
Horses
When passing riders and horse-drawn vehicles, drop your speed to below 10 mph and allow at least 2 metres of space.
Pedestrians
If there are pedestrians in the road, drive as slowly as possible and keep a minimum distance of 2 metres.
Bear in mind that these overtaking distances are minimum guidelines only and you should use extra caution if driving in bad weather, high winds or with poor visibility.
A smart dash cam can provide objective evidence, capturing footage that clearly shows if safe overtaking distances were maintained, which can be crucial for verifying compliance with these new rules.
Keeping Up to Date with the Code
Knowing the Highway Code is an essential part of driving and staying safe on the roads. The Highway Code isn’t a static document and is updated as and when rules or regulations change. Therefore it’s important to check regularly for updates. You can find these on the gov.uk website, on the Highway Code app or via social media alerts from official channels.