CHANGES TO
THE HIGHWAY
CODE
January 2022
RECENT HIGHWAY CODE CHANGES
Whether you are studying for your driving theory test, taking driving lessons or have passed your
driving test the recent revisions to the highway code are something that all drivers should know
about as they affect ALL road users.
The new rules came into effect on the 29th January 2022, and are essentially designed to improve
safety for all road users, however, some of the new rules can put drivers at risk of fines or penalty
points on their licence.
HIERARCHY OF ROAD USERS
There are 3 new rules about the hierarchy of road users
Rule H1 – those in charge of vehicles that cause the greatest harm in the event of a collision now
bear the greatest responsibility. However, other users should still be aware of their own and other
road users safety.
Rule H2 – At junctions drivers, motorcylists, horse-drawn vehicles, riders and cyclists should give
way to pedestrians waiting to cross a road into which your are turning. Only pedestrians may use
the pavement, but can also use any part of the road or cycle track unless there are signs
prohibiting this
HIERARCHY OF ROAD USERS
Rule H3 – This rule applies to drivers and motorcyclists.
You should not cut across cyclists, horse riders or horse-drawn vehicles going ahead when you are
turning into or out of a junction or changing direction or lane, just as you would not turn across
the path of another motor vehicle. This applies whether they are using a cycle lane, a cycle track,
or riding ahead on the road and you should give way to them.
Do not turn at a junction if to do so would cause the cyclist, horse rider or horse-drawn vehicle
going straight ahead to stop or swerve.
ROUNDABOUTS
Priority should be given to cyclists on a roundabout. Drivers should give them plenty of room and
not attempt to overtake them within their lane and allow them to move across the path of your
vehicle as they travel around the roundabout.
Cyclists, horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles may stay in the