Sign up for Daily Star Hot Topics newsletter for the most exciting real life, fashion and sex tips HOT off the press
Some UK drivers are calling for the latest changes to the Highway Code to be axed over fears they could be unsafe, according to Manchester Evening News.
The new Highway Code rules were introduced on Saturday, January 29.
Some of the rules that were changed include right of way at roundabouts and the introduction of the 'Dutch reach' method for opening your door.
And action group Voters for Motors is worried that a new road user hierarchy could result in an increased number of road traffic accidents.
The group is set to meet this week to look at potentially scrapping the updated rules to the Highway Code.
Voters for Motors is formed of individuals from organisations like FairFuelUK, the Motorcycle Action Group and the Alliance of British Drivers.
Voters for Motors said they planned to assemble this week via Zoom to discuss how they can challenge the new Highway Code.
A spokesperson told MailOnline: “Our concerns over the Highway Code include the fact that encouraging the undertaking and overtaking of vehicles intending to turn by cyclists will cause more crashes that drivers will be blamed for under the new ‘hierarchy of road users’."
The newly introduced “hierarchy of road users” states that quicker or heavier modes of travel have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to others on the road.
Cyclists have also been given new guidance to ride in the centre of a lane on quieter roads, in slower-moving traffic and at the approach to junctions in order to make themselves as clearly visible as possible.
They’ll also be reminded they can ride two abreast, which has always been the case and which can be safer in large groups or with children.
They must be aware of motorists behind them and allow them to overtake if it is safe to do so, says the Express.
Some motorists have already complained about the changes, saying they were unaware about the new rules.
Alex Kindred, car insurance expert at Confused.com, has commented on the lack of awareness of the changes and how this will affect drivers.
“When changes are made to the Highway Code, it’s important that road users familiarise themselves," he said.
“However, our latest research found that more than almost three in four (72 percent) drivers found the new rules confusing, which can be concerning as these are put in place to help keep all road users safe.
“In particular, more than half of drivers said that they felt confused about pedestrian priority at junctions.
“More than two in five were also confused about the new rulings around the hierarchy of road users.
“Almost two thirds of drivers polled said that they never brush up on changes to the Highway Code themselves.
“A further 61% believed the Government should take responsibility in making road users aware of any changes.
“But it’s important that we’re taking the time to keep up to date with the changes to keep our roads safe.”
Get all the biggest Lifestyle news straight to your inbox. Sign up for the free Daily Star Hot Topics newsletter
- Driving
- Motoring
Source: Read Full Article
