Two-fifths of drivers remain unaware of a flagship update to the Highway Code, despite it being introduced more than two years ago.
On 29 January 2022, the Highway Code was updated with a ‘hierarchy of responsibility’, which states that road users that cause the greatest harm have more responsibility to reduce the danger they pose.
The hierarchy applies across the road user spectrum, including pedestrians, but relates most strongly to drivers of HGVs, vans, buses, cars and motorcycles, as they typically cause the most damage in the event of a collision.
But worryingly, 30% of drivers said they did not know if such a rule existed, while 12% considered the rule to be untrue.
However, other rules introduced at the same time were successfully recalled. More than eight out of 10 (85%) knew that drivers intending to turn left should allow cyclists to pass on the left before carrying out the manoeuvre, while eight out of 10 (80%) knew that drivers should leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph, and give them more space when overtaking at higher speeds.
Nevertheless, only half of drivers were aware that the updated Code formally advised of scenarios where cyclists could ride two abreast in the centre of the lane. Similarly, 56% of drivers incorrectly believed long-established rules on when a horn should not be used were adopted in 2022, along with 42% who believed that the national speed limit for towing a trailer or caravan was reduced to 50mph on a single carriageway.
The AA is calling for a long-term education campaign to improve the knowledge of drivers across the UK – in particular the risk-based hierarchy.
Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist, said: “While the majority of drivers can recall important updates to the Highway Code, the flagship change that puts more responsibility on those behind the wheel remains unknown by too many drivers.
“Three in 10 drivers admit they haven’t looked at the Highway Code since they passed their test. New drivers and those learning to drive will be the ones most aware of the update, but it is long-standing motorists that need to be contacted to ensure they know the rules.
“It’s vital that we keep reminding drivers of these changes, which can make our roads safer and reduces crashes. Each year, millions of drivers are contacted with car tax reminders and licence renewals. This would be the ideal opportunity to inform everyone of the updated rules and keep the changes at the front of their minds.”
