There have been a lot of talks recently about how our roads will change thanks to the newest updates to the highway code in the UK.
Rumours are flying all over the web about whether cyclists now have more rights on the road than cars or whether it is legal to step off the curb ahead of oncoming traffic. Of course, these two suggestions are quite ridiculous, but you can see why people are panicking.
It is normal to worry if you don’t have the precise information in front of you. That is why this article will talk about some of the upcoming changes to the highway code so that everyone is on the same page.
Cyclist Positions
One of the biggest bits of contention between cyclists and drivers is the former’s position on the road. Previously, cyclists had to remain one foot away from the curb and could not ride more than two abreast on main roads. However, there has been some confusion about how this rule is changing.
Some people have suggested that the changes will allow all cyclists to ride in the centre of the road at whatever speed they choose. Fortunately, this is only hearsay. Instead, the rules for cyclists on main roads are not changing. On quieter roads, however, cyclists can act how they like so long as they are mindful of other cars on the road. This means that they can cycle in the middle of the road if they choose but must immediately pull over if traffic builds up behind.
Crossing At Junctions
Another point of confusion for drivers during this highway code aspect seems to involve the rights of pedestrians at junctions. Before, it was up to the pedestrian to be careful and give way to turning traffic. So, what’s changed?
Perhaps one of the biggest changes in this new update, the rules now state that traffic must wait to allow pedestrians to cross the junction before they turn. This rule also applies to cyclists, motorbikes, and any other road user. Failing to stop can result in punishment from the local driving authority.
Shared Spaces
One objective of the new highway code was to determine a hierarchy of road users. This list does not come into effect much on British roads; however, it is essential you understand how this process works when it comes to shared spaces.
A shared space refers to an area of path or road that is used by a mixture of pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders, or cars. In this instance, walking pedestrians are now taking priority. It is up to bikes, horses and cars to wait until it is safe to pass pedestrians from behind, but these pedestrians must also take care not to create an obstruction. It is also the job of drivers and cyclists to let their presence be known to pedestrians before moving past.
Charging Electric Cars
Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular nowadays, and you can learn all about the advantages of using these vehicles at LV Electrix. However, the sheer number of electric cars on the roads has created a demand for charge points. Before, there were no set guidelines for using one of these charging points. Fortunately, the new updates to the highway code have made this procedure much clearer.
For starters, drivers using a charging point must now remain as close to the curb as possible to reduce the number of trip hazards on the pathways. Secondly, you must try to warn those around you of your intention to charge your vehicle. You can do this with a simple obstruction sign or by staying close to your car until it is fully charged. These are only small changes to the highway code, but it is nice to see people thinking about electric vehicles as we move further into the new century.
Cyclists At Roundabouts
Roundabouts are a staple on British roads; however, you will find that each of these road junctions behaves differently depending on where you are. The new highway code has now updated its rules to help make traversing these roads much safer for cyclists.
As such, drivers and horse riders must now give priority to other cyclists on the road. Furthermore, it is now illegal to overtake bikes on a roundabout, no matter how far from the edge of the curb the rider has positioned themselves.
Summary
These new rules may seem unfair at first, but they have all been implemented to reduce accidents and injuries on British roads. You will get used to them eventually, so make sure you keep on top of any further updates so you can continue to use the roads properly. Also, try and search for the source of any rumours you hear before you take them as writ.
Photo credit
Photo by Kelly: https://www.pexels.com/photo/vehicles-passing-on-a-roundabout-2833724/