The Highway Code has updated its rules to make the roads safer for the most vulnerable road users and to encourage more cycling and walking in a safe way.
Cyclists are not obliged to use cycle lanes even if one is available. The code, which has made this rule clearer but hasn’t changed it, says cyclists should “exercise their judgement”.
The rulebook outlines that drivers should not turn into a junction if to do so they would have to stop or swerve a cyclist, horse rider or vulnerable road user.
In slow moving traffic, cyclists and pedestrians may pass the traffic and drivers should allow this.
Drivers should also allow more room for cyclists when overtaking them i.e. 1.5m.
A further key rule which has been introduced is the risk-based hierarchy which gives priority to vulnerable road users.
Road users who pose the greatest risk have been given the greater responsibility to minimise the risk for those more vulnerable.
The hierarchy is as follows:
- Pedestrians
- Cyclists
- Horse riders
- Motorcyclists
- Cars
- Vans and minibuses
- Large passenger vehicles and heavy goods vehicles
It means, for example, that when a car is turning into a road, they should stop to let pedestrians cross.
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