When was the last time you read the Highway Code? For many drivers, it was probably when revising for their theory test. However, the Highway Code undergoes periodic updates, and some of the most significant changes in recent years came into effect in 2022.
The changes were introduced to improve road safety and provide greater protection for vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders.
Here’s everything you need to know about the key Highway Code updates and what they mean for drivers.
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Why Was the Highway Code Updated?
The 2022 changes were designed to create safer roads and reduce the risk of collisions involving vulnerable road users.
The updates introduced a new concept known as the Hierarchy of Road Users, which places greater responsibility on those operating vehicles that can cause the most harm in the event of a collision.
The aim is not to give certain road users “more rights” than others but to encourage everyone to share the road safely and responsibly.
The Hierarchy of Road Users
One of the biggest changes introduced was the new hierarchy system.
Road users are prioritised as follows:
- Pedestrians
- Cyclists
- Horse riders
- Motorcyclists
- Car drivers and van drivers
- Larger vehicles such as HGVs and buses
Those who can cause the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce danger to others.
For drivers, this means paying even closer attention to pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders, particularly at junctions and crossings.
Giving Way to Pedestrians at Junctions
One of the most discussed updates concerns pedestrians crossing at junctions.
Under the updated guidance:
- Drivers should give way to pedestrians who are crossing or waiting to cross a road into which they are turning.
- Pedestrians crossing a side road have priority over vehicles turning into that road.
- Drivers should wait for pedestrians to finish crossing before proceeding.
This rule aims to improve pedestrian safety and make junctions safer for everyone.
Changes at Zebra and Parallel Crossings
The Highway Code also strengthened guidance around pedestrian crossings.
Drivers, cyclists, and motorcyclists should:
- Give way to pedestrians waiting to cross at a zebra crossing.
- Allow pedestrians already crossing to finish safely.
- Give way appropriately at parallel crossings, where cyclists and pedestrians may cross alongside one another.
Being aware of pedestrians approaching crossings has become even more important under the updated rules.
Overtaking Cyclists, Horse Riders and Pedestrians
The Highway Code now provides clearer guidance on safe overtaking distances.
When Overtaking Cyclists
Drivers should:
- Leave at least 1.5 metres of space when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph.
- Leave more space when travelling at higher speeds.
- Wait behind cyclists if safe clearance cannot be achieved.
When Overtaking Horse Riders
Drivers should:
- Pass at speeds of no more than 10mph.
- Leave at least 2 metres of space.
- Avoid sudden acceleration or loud engine noise that may startle horses.
When Passing Pedestrians
Where pedestrians are walking on the road because no pavement is available:
- Leave at least 2 metres of space where possible.
- Slow down appropriately before passing.
Patience and caution are essential when sharing the road with vulnerable users.
New Guidance for Cyclists
The updated Highway Code also clarified expectations for cyclists.
Cyclists should:
- Give way to pedestrians when turning into or out of a road.
- Use cycle lanes where provided and practical.
- Position themselves appropriately on the road for visibility and safety.
The guidance also confirms that cyclists travelling straight ahead at junctions generally have priority over vehicles turning across their path, unless road signs or markings indicate otherwise.
What Does This Mean for Drivers?
The key takeaway is awareness.
Drivers should:
- Check carefully for pedestrians at junctions.
- Allow extra space when overtaking cyclists and horse riders.
- Be prepared to give way more frequently.
- Anticipate the actions of vulnerable road users.
- Stay updated with Highway Code changes.
While some of the updates may require adjustments to long-established driving habits, they are intended to improve safety for everyone using the road.
To see if you really know the highway code, check out our latest article.
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