Explained: The Highway Code’s New ‘Road User Hierarchy’

By Blind Spot DriveBlog

Explained: The Highway Code’s New ‘Road User Hierarchy’

The Highway Code in the UK has introduced a new concept: the ‘Road User Hierarchy.’ This update aims to enhance safety on the roads by giving greater protection to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users. In this article, we’ll break down what the new hierarchy means, the key changes you need to be aware of, and how they impact drivers and other road users alike.

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Outline of the Article

1. Introduction
2. What Is the Highway Code’s New ‘Road User Hierarchy‘?
3. Understanding the Purpose of the Hierarchy
   • Why Vulnerable Road Users Are a Priority
4. Who Is Considered a Vulnerable Road User?
   • List of Road Users According to the Hierarchy
5. Key Changes to the Highway Code with the New Hierarchy
6. Responsibility of Car Drivers Under the New Hierarchy
   • Greater Responsibility to Protect Vulnerable Users
7. Pedestrians’ Priority at Junctions
   • Explanation of New Rules for Drivers
8. Changes to Zebra and Parallel Crossings
   • Prioritizing Pedestrians and Cyclists
9. Cyclists’ Rights and Priorities
   • Cyclists Going Straight at Junctions
   • Cyclists’ Position on the Road
10. The Dutch Reach for Car Doors

• How the Dutch Reach Protects Cyclists

11. Reactions from Road Safety Experts

• Positive Feedback from Safety Advocates
• Concerns About Awareness and Implementation

12. Impact of the New Hierarchy on Driving Tests

• Incorporating Changes into Driver Education

13. How the New Rules Affect Everyday Driving
14. Addressing Possible Confusion Among Drivers

• Avoiding Misunderstandings on the Road

15. Conclusion
16. FAQs

• What is the Road User Hierarchy?
• Who has the highest priority on roads under the new hierarchy?
• Do these rules apply to all drivers in the UK?
• What is the Dutch Reach, and why is it important?
• Will these changes be included in the driving test?

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Introduction

The UK’s Department for Transport has introduced significant updates to the Highway Code, including a new ‘Road User Hierarchy.’ But what exactly does this mean? In essence, it’s a system that ranks road users by vulnerability, with pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable users at the top. The goal? To make the roads safer for everyone, particularly those most at risk in traffic situations.

Let’s dive into what this new hierarchy entails, the changes that come with it, and what it means for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

What Is the Highway Code’s New ‘Road User Hierarchy’?

The ‘Road User Hierarchy’ is an organized ranking that prioritizes the safety of the most vulnerable individuals on the road. In this hierarchy, pedestrians are at the top, followed by cyclists and other less-protected road users. At the bottom are larger, more dangerous vehicles like lorries and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs).

Understanding the Purpose of the Hierarchy

This new hierarchy isn’t about limiting anyone’s rights; instead, it’s designed to encourage drivers to take greater care around those who are more vulnerable. By making it clear who needs the most protection, the Highway Code hopes to reduce accidents and enhance road safety.

Why Vulnerable Road Users Are a Priority

Vulnerable road users are those who lack the protective barriers that vehicles provide. Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists are more exposed and thus at a higher risk in the event of an accident.

Who Is Considered a Vulnerable Road User?

According to the new hierarchy, the road users ranked by vulnerability are:

1. Pedestrians
2. Cyclists
3. Horse riders
4. Motorcyclists
5. Cars and taxis
6. Vans and minibuses
7. Large passenger vehicles/heavy goods vehicles (HGVs)

The higher up on this list, the greater the priority that user is given for safety considerations.

Key Changes to the Highway Code with the New Hierarchy

With this new hierarchy comes a series of rule changes in the Highway Code aimed at promoting safety for these vulnerable groups.

Responsibility of Car Drivers Under the New Hierarchy

Under the updated Highway Code, drivers of cars and other motor vehicles now carry a greater responsibility to protect those at the top of the hierarchy. Drivers are urged to be mindful and take extra precautions around pedestrians and cyclists.

Greater Responsibility to Protect Vulnerable Users

Drivers are now expected to reduce the risk they pose to those more vulnerable. The focus is on awareness and actively protecting others through responsible driving.

Pedestrians’ Priority at Junctions

One of the standout changes is at junctions. Drivers should now yield to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross the road, even if the pedestrian has not yet stepped onto the crossing.

Explanation of New Rules for Drivers

Previously, drivers were only required to yield if the pedestrian was already crossing. Now, if a pedestrian is simply waiting, they still have priority.

Changes to Zebra and Parallel Crossings

The new rules also apply to zebra crossings and parallel crossings (used by both pedestrians and cyclists). Drivers must now yield to pedestrians or cyclists who are waiting to cross.

Prioritizing Pedestrians and Cyclists

This update reinforces the importance of driver awareness around crossings, ensuring safer passage for those on foot or bike.

Cyclists’ Rights and Priorities

Cyclists are given more explicit rights in the new Highway Code. They are encouraged to position themselves in the middle of their lane in certain situations, such as when on a quiet road or approaching junctions.

Cyclists Going Straight at Junctions

If a cyclist is going straight at a junction, they now have the right of way over turning vehicles.

Cyclists’ Position on the Road

The Code now recommends that cyclists ride in the center of their lane to make themselves more visible. This counters the past assumption that cyclists should always keep close to the curb.

The Dutch Reach for Car Doors

Another change is the introduction of the ‘Dutch Reach’ method for opening car doors, designed to prevent ‘dooring’ accidents with cyclists.

How the Dutch Reach Protects Cyclists

The Dutch Reach involves using the far hand to open a car door, making drivers naturally look over their shoulder. This action increases the likelihood of spotting an approaching cyclist before opening the door.

Reactions from Road Safety Experts

The new rules have been largely welcomed by road safety advocates. Experts see this as a positive shift toward a more safety-conscious road culture.

Positive Feedback from Safety Advocates

Safety organizations like Cycling UK and Living Streets have expressed support, highlighting the shift in responsibility towards those who can cause the most harm.

Concerns About Awareness and Implementation

Some, however, have voiced concerns about educating drivers on these changes. For example, the RAC warns that many drivers don’t regularly review the Highway Code, which could lead to misunderstandings.

Impact of the New Hierarchy on Driving Tests

The updated Highway Code will also impact driving education, with these changes expected to be included in both theory and practical driving tests. New drivers will need to be well-versed in these rules.

Incorporating Changes into Driver Education

Driving instructors are likely to include lessons on the new hierarchy, teaching learner drivers how to prioritize vulnerable users in real-life scenarios.

How the New Rules Affect Everyday Driving

For most drivers, these changes will require extra caution and greater attention to the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users.

Addressing Possible Confusion Among Drivers

There may be initial confusion as drivers adjust to the new hierarchy. However, with clear communication and awareness, the transition can lead to safer roads for everyone.

Avoiding Misunderstandings on the Road

Drivers are encouraged to stay informed and pay close attention to changes in road signs and markings that reinforce these new rules.

Conclusion

The new ‘Road User Hierarchy’ introduced by the Highway Code is a significant step toward improving safety on UK roads. By prioritizing the protection of the most vulnerable users, this hierarchy encourages responsible driving and a more safety-conscious mindset. Whether you’re a pedestrian, cyclist, or driver, understanding and respecting this hierarchy can contribute to a safer road environment for everyone.

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FAQs

1. What is the Road User Hierarchy?
The Road User Hierarchy is a new system in the Highway Code that ranks road users by their vulnerability, giving greater protection to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable individuals.

2. Who has the highest priority on roads under the new hierarchy?
Pedestrians are given the highest priority, followed by cyclists, horse riders, and motorcyclists. Motor vehicles like cars and HGVs are lower in the hierarchy due to the potential risk they pose.

3. Do these rules apply to all drivers in the UK?
Yes, the updated Highway Code and the new hierarchy apply to all drivers and road users across the UK.

4. What is the Dutch Reach, and why is it important?
The Dutch Reach is a method for opening car doors that encourages drivers to look over their shoulder, reducing the chance of hitting a cyclist with a car door.

5. Will these changes be included in the driving test?
Yes, the new rules are expected to be included in both theory and practical driving tests to ensure new drivers understand and apply the updated hierarchy.

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