You may have heard or read about the new changes being made to The Highway Code. From 29 January 2022 new rules will be introduced to improve safety for people cycling, walking and riding horses.
Most of what’s new places a greater responsibility on drivers to look out for people horse riding, cycling and walking. In total, 9 sections of the code are being updated, with 50 rules being added or updated – so you really need to know what’s new.
Reinforcing good behaviour
Most of the changes reinforce existing good driving behaviour and do not alter how we assess driving tests. However, some will result in a change in how we assess candidates.
A new ‘hierarchy of road users’ will be added to the code. Those in charge of vehicles that can cause the greatest harm in the event of a collision will bear the greatest responsibility to take care and reduce the danger they pose to others. This principle applies most strongly to drivers of large goods and passenger vehicles, cars and motorcycles.
Other road users, who may be vulnerable themselves, will have a responsibility to reduce danger to people walking. And of course, none of this detracts from the responsibility of ALL road users, including people walking, cycling and horse riding, to have regard for their own and other road users’ safety.
The most notable change for candidates and trainers is; “At a junction you should give way to people crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from you are turning”.
People driving or riding a motorcycle will need to take this new requirement to give way to people crossing into account as they plan their approach to the junction. This includes being aware of:
- the actions of the person crossing
- the actions of other road users nearby
If someone is waiting to cross, they’ll normally be standing at the edge of the pavement, actively looking in the direction of the traffic and the direction they intend to cross.
People driving or riding a motorcycle need to be aware of the person crossing’s actions and those of the other road users, so they can plan their approach safely and take the right action as they negotiate the junction.
Assessment on test
On a driving or riding test, failure to give way to someone who is clearly waiting to cross the road but is standing safely on the pavement would normally be assessed as a driving or riding fault. This is because the candidate would be deviating from the defined outcome. It’s clear though that our examiners will need to consider all factors, including:
- the presence of following traffic
- the speed on approach
- the visibility and actions of the person waiting to cross
- and whether it was clear the person intended to cross
Serious or dangerous fault
We won’t be changing the assessment level of a serious or dangerous fault with the introduction of this new rule.
If the learner driver or riders’ actions place a person crossing at risk, for example if they fail to give way to someone who is actually in the road, a serious fault would normally be recorded.
But the actions of the person walking and other road users nearby will have a bearing on how our examiner assesses the action.
They’ll consider things like:
- what they might have done driving in the same circumstances
- whether the actions of the person walking were reasonable and could be anticipated
- the presence of other road users nearby
As novice drivers, candidates are more likely to err on the side of caution and this will be considered.
Bedding in period
The new rules will influence the behaviour of all road users and it will take time for everyone, including people driving, riding motorcycles, people walking, cycling or riding a horse to adapt to the changes.
Our examiners will be taking this into account, and I feel it’s important that all road users and driver trainers do the same, as some people may not be aware of the changes and may react differently to the way novice drivers might be expecting.
Read our news story for changes to The Highway Code in full.
Staying up to date
The Highway Code is essential reading for everyone. It’s updated regularly, so it’s important that everyone reads it - not just learner drivers. Many of the rules in the code are legal requirements, and if you disobey these rules, you’re committing a criminal offence.
If you do not follow the other rules in the code, it can be used in evidence in court proceedings to establish liability.
The full version of The Highway Code is available, free of charge, on GOV.UK. This will be updated on 29 January 2022.
You’ll be able to buy an updated version of The Highway Code book online and at most high street bookshops from April 2022. It will have a new cover design so it’s easy to recognise.
52 comments
Comment by David Yan posted on
Does the new pedestrian priority rule only apply at T junctions or does it apply at any junction?
For example should traffic exiting a busy fast flowing roundabout be expected to stop on the roundabout to allow a pedestrian that is waiting to start to cross.
Will this also then apply at the entrance of a roundabout and the approach and exit of traffic light crossroads that do not have a pedestrian crossing?
Comment by Peter (DVSA) posted on
The rule change to give pedestrians priority to waiting to cross the road applies at junctions (including roundabouts) and when crossing side roads.
Comment by Patrick Farrell posted on
This is minefield, i understand if it looks like someone is not breaking stride stopping is the best option but what happens when people are stationary you stop and they look at you! who then makes the 1st move? and the driver's behind are not expecting you to stop. It will take take a reasonable amount of time for Joe public to understand and get their head around this (unfortunately) On test one mans go is another mans stop, i can see a lot more test failures in the pipeline.
Comment by Steve posted on
Well, as a driving instructor if more than 20 years I can safely say that these new rules in H2 will cause nothing but accidents as drivers will be unsure as to the intentions of pedestrians! I am positive that there will be an increase in vehicular accidents at junctions because of this and the statistics of pedestrian accidents will be little altered. As for the opening of the drivers door with the hand furthest from it will only compound the fact that drivers, more so the elderly (who will find it extraordinarily difficult to open the door with the opposite hand) Surely you should have better things to spend your time on, such as the dangers associated with drivers that do not understand road rules, prevent those instructors from getting people through their test rather than teaching them the values of attaining the skill of being able to drive on the roads.
Comment by Martin Gunter posted on
Can someone please confirm whether this new rule for giving way to pedestrians is only at give way junctions or if this also applies to traffic light junctions.
If it does apply to traffic light junctions how will this impact on right turning vehicles using the yellow box and having to wait for the pedestrian to cross leaving them liable to a ticket.
Comment by Peter (DVSA) posted on
Drivers and riders should obey the signals, road marking and signs at junctions. Failure to do so in some circumstances is committing an offence.
The rule change to give priority to pedestrians waiting to cross the road applies at junctions and when crossing side roads. It is clear that individual circumstances will determine if it is safe to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross and drivers and riders are expected to exert their own judgment to ensure the safety of themselves and other road users. Such factors as:
the presence of following traffic
the speed on approach
the visibility and actions of the person waiting to cross
and whether it was clear the person intended to cross
will need to be considered. The actions of the driver or rider should not place a pedestrian at risk if they fail to give way to someone who is already crossing the road.
Comment by Bryan Curtis posted on
we don't need law (highway code) changes we need driver education, that includes understanding by ALL Road Users
Comment by Benjamin Vaz posted on
I understand everything but make sense . Good for me and everyone safety.
Comment by Shivji Varsani posted on
RE: Rule change, “At a junction you should give way to people crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from you are turning”.
I expect a few rear-end collisions due to candidates OR normal drivers stopping when turning left into a junction and see pedestrian waiting to cross or maybe potentially cross. All drivers will not be expecting this behaviour. Is there national advertisements planned to inform all the regular drivers?
Comment by Peter (DVSA) posted on
Hi, yes there will be a national awareness raising and behaviour change campaign led by the well-established Department for Transport's THINK! team.
Comment by Colin Shields ADI posted on
These rule changes will not make the roads safer but quite the opposite. As a driving instructor thanks for putting me and my pupils into further danger we already experience hostility and resentment daily. Myself and many others have been involved in costly, time consuming and sometimes painful accidents at junctions as other road users aren’t paying full attention or giving us room these new rules will only add to all of the above.
It’s obvious that these rules are being copied from some European countries the pupils that we have from these counties say that the rules are largely ignored this will of course happen here. So we stop the vehicle behind doesn’t if you don’t know what I mean.
After all we been through in the last 2 years with covid and the loss of earnings you now go ahead and add dangerous, silly and complicated rules that barely anyone will follow and those that do run the risk of being involved in an accident.
One final thing. Has anyone considered the actual dangers here? Seriously? They clearly have never carried out a driving lesson, driven a car if they haven’t.
So thanks once again for making our job that bit more dangerous and stressful.
Comment by Stu Carey posted on
This is such a poorly thought out change. Pedestrians waiting to cross are in a safe place. A motorcyclist with following traffic is in a dangerous place and shouldn't have to even think about stopping to give way to pedestrians who are waiting. Did you consider that non-drivers don't read the Highway code and will stand there expecting the motorcyclist to turn?
Many drivers haven't read the Highway code in decades. A lot of immigrant drivers who exchange their licences have never read it. Why do you think they'll read it now and know about this change? So when I stop to allow someone cross, I know at some point I'll have a van driver behind me laying on the horn and/or swerving around me to turn.
This should never have been included in the changes.
Comment by Paul Dickinson Coaching Limited posted on
It's a significant concern that protest groups have persuaded DVSA to authorise unsafe practices to the HC in the belief that somehow 'they' will be safer. DVSA already knows the number one fault in the UK that causes fatalities is 'failing to observe'. This is a people fault not just attributable to drivers, it is also attributable to pedestrians and cyclists.
DVSA also knows that any confusion existing between road users approaching each other is a pre-requisite for a collision of any type. Any legislation therefore that exists to persuade pedestrians they have a perceived authority over moving traffic is fraught with high risk and personal danger, to them. Their assumption that they have been seen by approaching vehicles is one of their biggest flaws, an almighty potential risk and I don't see how this will change.
To create a code of practice that actively encourages them to walk or run out in front of moving traffic in their belief they now have a priority is foolhardy and weak governance. It puts all road users at higher risk. I don't see any benefits here for anyone's safety at junctions. A much more simple rule would have been to discourage any actions at junctions that allows them to decide it's okay to walk out in front of moving traffic. After all, exactly why would you want to walk out in front of a moving vehicle?
Cyclists are already the most unhelpful group of road users we encounter on our lessons when they are riding in groups of two or more. Policing their behaviour and providing more support for other road users in the legislation would have been a much more positive step forward for everyone's safety.
I'm unsurprised at the weakness of DVSA here.
After 24 years and 40,000 of on road lessons on motorcycles it's alarming to see some backward steps being made in regard to the safety of all road users.
Comment by Josh (DVSA) posted on
Hi Paul,
All road users, including people walking, cycling and horse riding, have a responsibility for their own and other road users’ safety. The 'hierarchy of road users' just places greater responsibility on those in charge of vehicles that can cause the greatest harm to take care and reduce danger for more vulnerable road users.
Most of the changes are reinforcing existing good driving behaviour.
Kind regards.
Comment by Deb Hegarty posted on
Well said, to actively encourage authority to pedestrians over vehicles (on a road) - (made for...said vehicles) is absolutely ludicrous!
Insight...it's a wonderful thing, pity the powers that be' do not practise it.
Comment by Stewart Seymour posted on
Extremely valid points. I fear this may cause more problems than solutions!
Comment by Iain Hall posted on
Totally agree Paul, as all ADI’s with any sense will. It is total madness!
Comment by Nigel owen posted on
It is always welcome to get clear guidance on how compliance is assessed on test.
Comment by Wayne steer posted on
I am a instructor (16))years .today I was turning left from a duel carriageway .there was a pedestrian on my left so i stopped in my lane after making shaw it was save behind me . The pedestrian looked at me and waved at me saying thanks .then he decided to run in front of me to cross the road . Thank god the outside lane was free . Omg
Comment by Steve Cocks B.Sc. Drivex Limited posted on
Driver training professionals generally try to make driving, riding and using the roads a less risky activity…..and the actions of government and DVSA over the last 6 months are moving in the opposite direction.
Comment by Gary posted on
Absolutely spot on. I’m a car and motorcycle examiner and I couldn’t agree more (as do my colleagues). These changes are seriously misguided.
Comment by Cliff Hyde posted on
While I would always adhere to the Highway Code I wouldn’t nessessary agree with it.
I have been driving for 50 years so not lacking in experience.
In that time I’ve seen a lot of bad driving on the roads including a car stopping at quiet junction to let a pedestrian cross and a car overtaking because they were inpatient but couldn’t see the pedestrian. It was a very close call.
I can see this new rules causing some very nasty accidents.
Comment by Julie Lansdown posted on
Totally 💯% agree with everything you say here. I saw grown adults running across crossroads road pulling small children behind them yesterday without looking to see if it was safe! What is this teaching the children. Also on another occasion where there was a combined crossing with the crossing on red, two people decided they didn't need to wait if they walked a few yards down the road and agaIn walked out without crossing. Surely if there is a crossing they should still use it?? This was at a very busy time coming out of retail shopping park with all the roads very busy, pedestrians seem to think they can run out whenever and wherever they want too now! Total madness
Comment by David posted on
I am sure as a responsible road users we are aware of the dangers on the roads. A real progressive step would have been to encourage better awareness of the dangers of crossing the road with out due care and attention. Regards cyclist a better approach would have been to insist they have passed a competence test and paid an insurance policy. These new rules will i am sure lead to more accidents not less. As a parent of small children I cant understand actions taken that would put our children in danger.
David
Comment by G Cope posted on
It is blatantly obvious that these changes will cause more fatalities and injuries, rather than less. It should be the most vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists, that should be educated to be more responsible and more aware and vigilant when meeting traffic at junctions. Roads are designed for modern day traffic to flow safely. These changes in the Highway code will cause chaos at some busy junctions where many pedestrians cross. Surely more pedestrian crossings and cycle lanes would be a better way forward.
Comment by John posted on
What about the cyclist who have no regards to people on the pavement one minute on the pavement next the road and also these e/scooters in the middle of the road with no consideration to pedestrians or road users
Comment by John Parker posted on
DVSA have totally lost the plot and are unduly influenced by the cycling lobby. Also kids will have a new game, stand on the kerb stop the cars then runoff. Also after turning a corner and straightening how long does the pedestrian privilege
last for???
Comment by Ian Mann posted on
Totally agree with the comments above , as someone who drives & rides motorcycles for over thirty years .
The DVSA could also have suggested making the use of helmets , high viz , lights , insurance and identification for cyclists mandatory but unfortunatly they have taken the anti car anti motorised vehicle route ..what a cop out !
Comment by Ray posted on
Its wrong to change it people on bikes not all of them but most of them don't stop at any lights cross in front of my class 2 lorry they have had bike lane to ride in now we have been told they don't have to use them the roads are so narrow now some places lorry mirrors and buses hit each other because there are bike lanes on each side of the road witch they don't use its a bloody joke.
We pay road tax and they don't pay a thing our roads are in need of repair and they have smooth bike lanes which they wont use
Comment by Debra Burns posted on
What about people using guide dogs. The dogs have been trained not to cross when there’s traffic present.
Also drivers may be aware of close following traffic but pedestrians may not.. if pedestrians decide to cross it could result in rear end collision with 1st car being shunted into pedestrians anyhow. We can train them to try and control following traffic but it isn’t always possible and once kids realise they have priority they’ll just take the mick. Many accidents waiting to happen.
Comment by Peter (DVSA) posted on
Hi, the RNIB supported the Highway Code changes - https://www.rnib.org.uk/news/campaigning/changes-highway-code-further
It is clear that individual circumstances will determine if it is safe to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross and drivers and riders are expected to exert their own judgment to ensure the safety of themselves and other road users. Such factors as:
the presence of following traffic
the speed on approach
the visibility and actions of the person waiting to cross
and whether it was clear the person intended to cross
will need to be considered. The actions of the driver or rider should not place a pedestrian at risk if they fail to give way to someone who is already crossing the road.
Comment by Peter Davenport posted on
Hi Paul, as Josh says the updated code in the main is reinforcing the previous , which I think is a great idea as I believe many motor vehicle drivers have forgotten or are ignorant to the dangers pedestrians and cyclist encounter while on the highways they have every right to be on. Responsibility and respect from all users will make the roads safer.
Sincerely, Peter. Motorbike rider, car driver and pedestrian.
Comment by Steven Hunt posted on
All these new rules for bike riders would be ok if we were all on level play ground. Let's see boris and his side kick mayor licence tax and insur bikes. Clowns cyclists pay nothing and cause dangerous situations everywhere. But get rewarded. Welcome back 3rd Reich.
Comment by Steven Hunt posted on
Make all road users pay tax insurance have a yearly conform and a license. I have to have all. So let's see the cyclists have the same
Comment by Derek Phillips posted on
I cannot understand why a new part of the highway should be not to park on the opposite side of the road facing traffic,you blazing headlamps directly in your face,they stop traffic on both sides of the to get out of the position,plus we have reflecters on the back of the car to see them in poor weather conditions,This should be a new law
Comment by Dave Harris posted on
I don’t agree with Paul’s comment especially about cyclists and the reply from the DVSA is not woolly at all. It simply reiterates the thrust of the changes. The whole thrust of the hierarchy is to place more responsibility on motor vehicle drivers to take more care whatever those around them might do. What is now in place is no less than what existing ‘advanced’ drivers are trained to do. For me, many of the comments I’ve seen in various places simply confirm the attitudes of a large proportion of actually aggressive, latently aggressive and ignorant drivers who have little or no patience and don’t leave enough time for their journeys. I think part of the reasons for the changes is that there is a recognition that general safety behaviour on the road is less than it was. Those with poor attitudes, no patience and lack of knowledge will have to learn the hard way.
Comment by John Guest posted on
Can you provide clarification on junctions controlled by Traffic Lights. Rule 21 for Pedestrians states: "At traffic lights. There may be special signals for pedestrians. You should only start to cross the road when the green figure shows. If you have started to cross the road and the green figure goes out, you should still have time to reach the other side, but do not delay. If no pedestrian signals have been provided, watch carefully and do not cross until the traffic lights are red and the traffic has stopped. Keep looking and check for traffic that may be turning the corner. Remember that traffic lights may let traffic move in some lanes while traffic in other lanes has stopped." Does this mean that Rule 170 which states: "give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from which you are turning" does not apply on Traffic Light controlled Junctions?
Comment by Peter (DVSA) posted on
If a pedestrian is crossing at a signal controlled crossing they should use the crossing provided for their own safety.
Drivers and riders should obey the signals, road markings and signs at junctions. Failure to do so in some circumstances is committing an offence.
The rule change to give priority to pedestrians waiting to cross the road applies at junctions (including road abouts) and when crossing side roads.
It is clear that individual circumstances will determine if it is safe to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross and drivers and riders are expected to exert their own judgment to ensure the safety of themselves and other road users. Such factors as:
the presence of following traffic
the speed on approach
the visibility and actions of the person waiting to cross
and whether it was clear the person intended to cross
will need to be considered. The actions of the driver or rider should not place a pedestrian at risk if they fail to give way to someone who is already crossing the road.
Comment by John Guest posted on
Peter(DVSA). You have been asked the same question by myself and Paul Jackson as to whether the new rule 170 applies at traffic light junctions as it contradicts Rule 21 for pedestrians. You have given exactly the same answer but have still not answered the question. If, at a traffic light controlled junction there are pedestrian red/green figures there should be no problem as traffic will have a green light whilst pedestrians will have a red figure. If there are no pedestrian red/green figures is where the conflict between Rule 21 and Rule 170 arises. Rule 21 is clearly safer for pedestrians. Also keep in mind that at some traffic light controlled X Roads only one road may have pedestrian red/green figures, adding further confusion. Can we have a definitive answer as to whether Rule 170 applies at traffic light controlled junctions, and consideration to possibly changing the wording before the hard copy of the HC is published with conflicting rules.
Comment by Peter (DVSA) posted on
The guidance to give priority to pedestrians crossing at a junction does not apply at signalised junctions. This is because it is a legal requirement for all road users to obey traffic lights. Rule 109 sets this out.
Comment by Arthur Preece posted on
Would help if cyclists and horse riders payed to use the road they hold traffic up so that alone costs the motorists. up just keep hitting the motorists it's easy money for the government always the motorists
Comment by Stephen Horner posted on
So in other words pedestrians are in charge , uve totally missed the point here. Encourage people to use crossings or get council to put more in dangerous places would be good
Comment by Rod Smith posted on
Agree with Josh's reply to Paul and noted but people won't see it that way unless it is actively communicated and enforced. I've have already have an altercation with a cyclist this week when he dangerously rode the wrong way down a one way street..with his actual words- "don't care mate, I'm on a bike - I can do what I want".. And he he was wearing cycling club attire.. Very worrying if that is how they see it..
Comment by Bryan posted on
Sadly any comment to the Dvsa will have a answer that is not helpful. I agree with the negative comments. Just as I agree with the negative comments about letting people tow 3500kg without mandatory training putting road safety to us all at risk. They have put thousands of people in danger and thousands of trainers out of business overnight. Why have consultations if you do not listen ?????
Comment by Peter (DVSA) posted on
Hi Bryan,
The summary of public feedback to the consultation on ending car and trailer tests is here - https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/changes-to-hgv-and-bus-driving-tests-and-allowing-car-drivers-to-tow-a-trailer-without-an-extra-test/public-feedback/summary-of-public-feedback-on-proposals-to-change-hgv-and-bus-driving-tests-and-allow-car-drivers-to-tow-trailers-without-a-test
The majority of respondents (64%) supported this proposal.
Comment by Phil Fraser posted on
Hi I am a driving instructor and also find some of the rules confusing.
I understand about the safety aspect, but everyone need to know the rules.
On a lesson the other day we were turning right and a lady with a dog was standing on the corner. The pupil stopped but she just started at us. She has not heard about the rule. If it was a busy road we would have held up the traffic..
Can you clarify when turning at lights do cars still have the priority as the pedestrian will be crossing against a red light. If we were to suddenly stop it could cause an accident. On a test before that was ignored, unless the pedestrian was about to be hit,
Some pedestrians will be confused now thinking they have the priority at the traffic light junction.
How do we treat crossing points now. Before we did not have to stop but be cautious if a pedestrian was standing at the island in the middle of the road.
Most crossing points are on roads that can be 30 mph and so it would be dangerous to suddenly stop. At the moment most pedestrians know they have to wait for cars if using a crossing point. Some will now think they can just walk in front of a car. There has not been enough information for the general public. My wife was almost run over yesterday at a junction as a car did not stop. She knew the rules but the driver did not. She did have to do jump quickly out of the way!
What if a blind person is crossing at a junction, the dogs are taught to wait until the road is clear. If there are normal pedestrians there at the same time they would cross. I know you should use your judgement but for a new learner and uninformed pedestrian it could end badly.
With cyclist none of them indicate or check behind before they turn.
Last week on a lesson twice we had this happen. I was talking the pupil through what could happen and not overtake until the road was safe and clear. After about two minutes the road was clear and we started checking to overtake, as we moved out the cyclist served across the road without looking. Luckily for the cyclist I had warned the pupil expect anything and the worse did happen. We did stop but other drivers may not have.
The same happend a couple of days later.
Cyclist keep jumping red lights as well.
If everyone followed the rules it would be safer for all concerned.Cyclist should indicate and have mirrors so they know what is behind them.
At the moment it all falls onto the vehicle drivers due to the irresponsible cyclist who don't seem to care less.
It is frustrating for us teaching the correct rules and the cyclist blatantly doing what they want.
On a roundabout as you exit can you clarify about the priorities if a pedestrian is crossing on the exit.
I do not think it is safe for cyclist to use the outer lane. A lot of the roundabouts where I teach are on fast roads with duel carriageways with multiple lanes, or multi lane spiral roundabouts. Most car drivers are confused with spiral roundabouts with very bad lane discipline
How would a cyclist go around the plough roundabout , magic roundabout, in Hemel Hempstead. You can go either way around therefore cyclist would meet oncoming cars?
I understand about the safety aspect but it will not work well until everyone knows the rules and follows them. Not everyone uses the intent and a lot of senior drivers may not use the intent and probably have not read the highway code. As it is not being published until April 16, they would not know about the rules. I expect they will not buy the new highway code as they don't know about the changes.
Comment by Peter (DVSA) posted on
Drivers and riders should obey the signals, road marking and signs at junctions. Failure to do so in some circumstances is committing an offence.
The rule change to give priority to waiting to cross the road applies at junctions and when crossing side roads along with roundabouts, but of course safety is also a priority. It is clear that individual circumstances will determine if it is safe to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross and drivers and riders are expected to exert their own judgment to ensure the safety of themselves and other road users. Such factors as:
the presence of following traffic
the speed on approach
the visibility and actions of the person waiting to cross
and whether it was clear the person intended to cross
will need to be considered. The actions of the driver or rider should not place a pedestrian at risk if they fail to give way to someone who is already crossing the road.
Comment by Phil Fraser posted on
Thank you for your reply.
You did not give an answer for crossing points. Paved or unpaved.
Pedestrians have always just walked out in front of cars on the paved ones.
Paved ones are mentioned but nothing about the basic crossing point. That will be confusing for pedestrians and very dangerous as unpaved are on faster roads. Paved on busy high streets.
I do teach be prepared and watch out for unpredictable pedestrians especially ones looking at their phones whilst crossing.
Are you saying we have to give way to pedestrians whilst you are leaving a roundabout. Where I teach a lot of the roundabouts are on 70 mph roads with dual carriageways with multiple exits.
Several of the are spiral roundabouts with multiple lanes. That will be very dangerous as cyclist will be crossing two exits with multiple lanes. As you know if turning right you start at the centre and the roundabout markings move you to the outside as you go round.
It can be dangerous if a driver is in the wrong lane, how is the cyclist supposed to cross up to 5 lanes but not leave and continue going round the outside!
Have a look at the London Colney roundabout on the A414 or Hatfield roundabout on A414/A1 junction just after the Hatfield tunnel.
Drivers will be obeying the lanes, most of them have two lanes exiting the roundabout, a cyclist will be hidden to your left.
A lot of foreign lorry drivers turn right from the left lane which is dangerous, you are encouraging cyclist to do the same thing.
Cyclist very rarely give signals which makes it even worse.
Comment by Peter (DVSA) posted on
Hi,
The rule change to give priority to waiting to cross the road applies at junctions and when crossing side roads as a vehicle would be slowing down to make the turn.
The rule on giving way to pedestrians already crossing the road already exists (Rule 170) so this has just been clarified in the new guidance.
The rule change does also apply at roundabouts but of course safety is priority. It is clear that individual circumstances will determine if it is safe to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross and drivers and riders are expected to exert their own judgment to ensure the safety of themselves and other road users. Such factors as:
- the presence of following traffic
- the speed on approach
- the visibility and actions of the person waiting to cross
- and whether it was clear the person intended to cross
will need to be considered. The actions of the driver or rider should not place a pedestrian at risk if they fail to give way to someone who is already crossing the road.
Comment by Paul Jackson posted on
A driving instructor by the name of “Alan” contacted the DVSA via Facebook Messenger at 07:31 hours on 27th January 2022 to enquire whether the new rules in respect of giving way to pedestrians applies at junctions controlled by traffic lights.
The DVSA reply (at 12:20 hours) is as follows:
“If the traffic lights were at a junction however, the rule changes do apply”. I have the following queries:
1. Please confirm that the DVSA is advocating that drivers should give way to pedestrians waiting at the kerb to cross at junctions controlled by traffic lights? In other words, are drivers/riders really expected to stop at a green traffic light to allow a pedestrian to cross? Be mindful that not all junctions controlled by traffic lights have a red/green pedestrian figure.
2. What if the junction has the traffic lights linked to the green figure/red figure? Does the DVSA advocate that a pedestrian (or cyclist using a toucan crossing) may cross in disobedience of the red figure when they see that a driver or rider has stopped at a green traffic light to give way to them only to be at risk of a collision with another vehicle travelling in an adjoining lane?
“Alan” has published a screenshot of the DVSA’s response to confirm that it is authentic. I hope the DVSA’s response is erroneous because lives will be lost!
Comment by Peter (DVSA) posted on
If a pedestrian is crossing at a signal controlled crossing they should use the crossing provided for their own safety.
Drivers and riders should obey the signals, road marking and signs at junctions. Failure to do so in some circumstances is committing an offence.
The rule change to give priority to pedestrians waiting to cross the road applies at junctions and when crossing side roads along with junctions at roundabouts, but of course safety is also a priority. It is clear that individual circumstances will determine if it is safe to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross and drivers and riders are expected to exert their own judgment to ensure the safety of themselves and other road users. Such factors as:
the presence of following traffic
the speed on approach
the visibility and actions of the person waiting to cross
and whether it was clear the person intended to cross
will need to be considered. The actions of the driver or rider should not place a pedestrian at risk if they fail to give way to someone who is already crossing the road.
Comment by Mrs Kim Freeborn posted on
Last week driving with my pupils was like a minefield as four pedestrians stepped straight off the kerb infront of us, another one between cars on an electric scooter and a lady with a pushchair.Not one of them looked and just expected us to stop.It was very dangerous as we had car drivers following too close also.I saw a cyclist wobbling out of a cycle lane and not using it and jumped a red traffic light. The new rules have allowed cyclists and pedestrians to be lawless! It makes learners very hesitant and panic when not always necessary and their common sense has been taken away from them and they doubt themselves even more.There are going to be more accidents on our roads and more road rage.