Highway Code Overhaul: 8 Crucial Changes You Must Know NOW
The Highway Code has had a shake-up to boost safety for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. After a public consultation in 2020 that attracted over 20,000 responses, most backing the updates, the new rules kicked in on 29 January 2022.
Here are the 8 headline changes shaking up Britain’s roads.
1. New ‘Hierarchy of Road Users’ Puts Vulnerable First
The Highway Code now opens with a brand-new hierarchy ranking road users by risk. Pedestrians top the list, followed by cyclists and horse riders. Drivers come last.
This system doesn’t remove responsibility from anyone but stresses the need for all to be careful and considerate.
New rules H1-H3 state: Everyone must understand how their actions affect others’ safety and act accordingly.
2. Priority for Pedestrians at Junctions Gets a Clear Boost
If you’re crossing or waiting at a junction, you now get priority. Drivers turning into a road must give way if you’re already crossing.
Drivers, motorcyclists, and cyclists must also always yield at zebra crossings and parallel crossings (which accommodate cycles alongside pedestrians).
3. Sharing the Space: New Rules for Walkers, Cyclists & Horse Riders
Walking, cycling, or riding horses in shared spaces comes with fresh guidelines:
- Cyclists and horse riders must give way to pedestrians.
- Cyclists should never zoom past too close or fast, especially from behind.
- Ring your bell to warn pedestrians if needed.
- Don’t pass horses on their left side.
4. Cyclists’ Road Positioning & Group Riding Rules Updated
Cyclists are urged to ride centrally in their lane on quieter roads or at junctions to boost visibility and safety.
On busier roads, keep at least 0.5 metres from the kerb to avoid hazards like drains and parked cars.
Group riders can cycle two abreast — good for safety — but must be mindful of vehicles behind and let them overtake safely.
5. Overtaking Rules Beefed Up to Protect Vulnerable Road Users
Drivers must now give at least 1.5 metres when passing cyclists at speeds up to 30mph, more if going faster.
When passing horses or horse-drawn vehicles, slow down to under 10mph and keep at least 2 metres distance.
On roads without pavements, drivers must give pedestrians 2 metres of space and keep speeds low.
Cyclists can pass slow or stationary traffic on either side but must exercise caution, especially near junctions or large vehicles.
6. Cycling at Junctions: Who Gives Way & New Traffic Lights
Cyclists turning into or out of side roads should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross.
Some junctions now have special low-level cycle traffic lights, letting cyclists move ahead safely before other traffic.
No special cycle facilities? Cyclists should ride in the centre of their lane to stay visible and deter dangerous overtaking.
For right turns marked for two-stage turns, cyclists proceed straight first, wait at the cycle stop line, then complete the turn when lights change.
Cyclists going straight have priority over vehicles waiting to turn unless signs say otherwise.
7. Roundabouts: Drivers Must Yield to Cyclists
New guidance makes it clear drivers and motorcyclists must not overtake cyclists within their lane on roundabouts.
Motorists must allow cyclists to cut across when moving around the roundabout and take care not to cut them up, especially if cyclists stay in the left lane to continue around.
8. The ‘Dutch Reach’ and EV Charging Rules Enter The Code
To avoid ‘dooring’ cyclists, vehicle occupants are urged to use the ‘Dutch Reach’—opening the door with the far hand to force a shoulder check behind.
Electric vehicle charging gets its first-ever mention. Park close, avoid trip hazards with trailing cables, display warning signs if possible, and store cables neatly after use.
What’s Next? Stay Sharp and Stay Safe
The Highway Code now has 50 new or revised rules across 10 sections. Don’t get caught out — many are legal requirements with serious consequences if ignored.
The full updated Highway Code is free to read online at GOV.UK. You can preorder the revamped book now or grab a copy from April 2022 at high street shops. The new cover makes it stand out.
Prefer tech? The updated Highway Code app is out on iOS; Android users, it’s coming soon.
