On 29 January 2022, the Highway Code was updated with the ‘hierarchy of responsibility’, which states that road users that cause the greatest harm have more responsibility to reduce the danger they pose. Worryingly, 30% of drivers said they did not know if such a rule existed, while 12% considered the rule to be untrue.
When The AA asked the same question in December 2021, a month before the changes were adopted, two thirds (68%) of drivers were unaware of the ‘hierarchy of responsibility’ rules.
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 believes that awareness of these changes needs to be repeated for years to come to improve the knowledge of drivers across the UK.
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.”
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