- A new “hierarchy of road users” was introduced to improve safety for vulnerable road users in January 2022.
- Those at greatest risk in a collision (pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists) are now supposed to get more protection.
- However, recent polls show nearly half of drivers are unaware of the new rules.
Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is urging drivers to ensure they understand – and adhere to – the Highway Code changes which were introduced on 29 January 2022.
The changes were intended to ensure that those who can cause the most harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce danger to others. Specifically the changes include:
- Giving priority to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross at junctions
- Requiring drivers to give way to cyclists going straight ahead when turning in or out of junctions
- Establishing safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking cyclists and horse riders
- Encouraging the “Dutch Reach” method when opening car doors to avoid hitting cyclists.
However, three years on, GEM is concerned that the new rules – and the responsibility now placed on drivers – are not well enough understood.
In 2023, 405 pedestrians were killed on the roads of Great Britain with 6067 seriously injured1. 87 pedal cyclists were killed with 4,942 seriously injured.
In 2024, figures from the British Horse Society3 show that in 2024 there were 58 horses killed in road incidents, with 97 seriously injured. Additionally, 3,118 road incidents were reported to the Society – mostly relating to vehicles passing too close, too fast or both.
GEM head of road safety James Luckhurst said: “This has been one of the most frequently asked questions by GEM members, many of whom feel they do not have a clear understanding of their increased responsibility under the 2022 ‘hierarchy of road users’. They worry that this could lead to confusion and conflict.
“The changes were welcome when they came out as they reflect a shift towards prioritising the safety of vulnerable road users and encouraging more considerate behaviour on the roads. However, they have no chance of being effective when so few drivers appear to know about them or are confused as to what they should be doing differently.
“It is also concerning to read surveys which suggest that as many as half of drivers are unaware of the ‘new’ rules.
“We encourage the government to lead the way in correcting this situation. A clear communication campaign to car drivers is vital if we want them to know what they are now expected to do differently.”
GEM has complied a brief summary of the Highway code changes and what car drivers should now do:
- Be more vigilant at junctions. Give way to pedestrians and cyclists.
- Maintain safe distances when passing vulnerable road users
- When overtaking a cyclist at up to 30mph, allow a space of at least 1.5 metres. If you are driving faster than this, ensure the space you allow is greater.
- When passing a horse on the road, slow down to a maximum of 10mph and allow a space of at least two metres as you go past.
- Take extra care when turning, ensuring you don’t cut across cyclists or horse riders.
- Be mindful of the harm you can cause and adjust your driving accordingly.