Sat 18 December 2021:
In the United Kingdom, the new Highway Code prioritizes cyclists and pedestrians over motorists at intersections, causing “confusion” according to several local media reports.
The Highway Code is required reading in the United Kingdom for anyone who uses the road in any way, including pedestrians, mobility scooter users, cyclists, horse riders, drivers, and motorcyclists.
On December 1, a summary of the proposed changes, which will take effect on January 29, was published. The Highway Code will improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians, and horse riders, according to the report.
The new code establishes a “hierarchy of road users,” ensuring that those who can cause the most harm bear the greatest responsibility for reducing the danger or threat they may pose to others.
The code further states that clarifying existing rules on pedestrian priority on pavements and that drivers and riders should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross the road.
Also, establishing guidance on safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking cyclists or horse riders. The code is also meant to ensure that they have priority at junctions when travelling straight ahead.
A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “The proposed upcoming changes to The Highway Code will improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders.”
It is important to note that the new rules are subject to getting parliamentary approval and in case if MPs don’t vote to oppose, it will come into place automatically.
Apart from increasing cars’ responsibility around cyclists and pedestrians, the Code also mentions some mention-worthy changes. Also, as per the changed rule, there’s a ban on flashing your lights.
The riders will be told to give way to pedestrians on shared-use cycle tracks, cars indicating a left or right turn will have to give way to cyclists coming from behind or moving straight on.
“The aim of The Highway Code is to promote safety on the road, whilst also supporting a healthy, sustainable and efficient transport system,” part of the report read.
The AA president, Edmund King, was quoted in the British media as saying that the changes could be problematic. “With such fundamental changes to the Highway Code taking place to make our roads safer, we need to ensure road users understand the new rules ahead of time.” he said.
“Getting the message out now would help avoid dangerous situations and remove any confusion on the roads before the new rules are adopted,” he added.
SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES
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