Change in the Highway Code

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Change in the Highway Code

17 February 2022

Did you know: As of the end of January 2022, the Highway Code changed? There is new guidance in the code about routes and spaces shared by people walking, cycling and riding horses. People cycling, riding a horse or driving a horse-drawn vehicle should respect the safety of people walking in these spaces, but people walking should also take care not to obstruct or endanger them.   People cycling are asked to: ~ not pass people walking, riding a horse or driving a horse-drawn vehicle closely or at high speed, particularly from behind ~ slow down when necessary and let people walking know they are there (for example, by ringing their bell) ~ remember that people walking may be deaf, blind or partially sighted ~ not pass a horse on the horse’s left  

Positioning in the road when cycling

There is updated guidance for people cycling about positioning themselves which includes: ~ riding in the centre of their lane on quiet roads, in slower-moving traffic and at the approach to junctions or road narrowings ~ keeping at least 0.5 metres (just over 1.5 feet) away from the kerb edge (and further where it is safer) when riding on busy roads with vehicles moving faster than them  

People cycling in groups

The updated code explains that people cycling in groups: ~ should be considerate of the needs of other road users when riding in groups ~ can ride 2 abreast - and it can be safer to do so, particularly in larger groups or when accompanying children or less experienced riders People cycling are asked to be aware of people driving behind them and allow them to overtake (for example, by moving into single file or stopping) when it’s safe to do so.

 

People cycling passing parked vehicles

The updated code explains that people cycling should: ~ take care when passing parked vehicles, leaving enough room (a door’s width or 1 metre) to avoid being hit if a car door is opened ~ watch out for people walking into their path

  Overtaking when driving or cycling You may cross a double-white line if necessary (provided the road is clear) to overtake someone cycling or riding a horse if they are travelling at 10 mph or less (Rule 129). There is updated guidance on safe passing distances and speeds for people driving or riding a motorcycle when overtaking vulnerable road users, including: ~ leaving at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) when overtaking people cycling at speeds of up to 30mph, and giving them more space when overtaking at higher speeds ~ passing people riding horses or driving horse-drawn vehicles at speeds under 10 mph and allowing at least 2 metres (6.5 feet) of space ~ allowing at least 2 metres (6.5 feet) of space and keeping to a low speed when passing people walking in the road (for example, where there’s no pavement) Wait behind them and do not overtake if it’s unsafe or not possible to meet these clearances.

 

People cycling passing slower-moving or stationary traffic

The updated code confirms that people cycling may pass slower-moving or stationary traffic on their right or left. They should proceed with caution as people driving may not be able to see them. This is particularly important: ~ on the approach to junctions ~ when deciding whether it is safe to pass lorries or other large vehicles   The full details can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/.../the-highway-code-8-changes-you... We want our customers to enjoy adventuring, whether it be on-road or off-road, on horseback or two-wheels, and stay safe whilst doing so. Please share this information to help raise awareness of these changes and help to keep everyone safe while doing what they love.