what are the 8 changes to the highway code from 29 january 2022

The 8 key changes to the Highway Code that came into effect on January 29, 2022 are:
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1. Introduction of a Hierarchy of Road Users [1][5]
This places those most at risk in the event of a collision at the top. It doesn't remove the need for all road users to behave responsibly.

2. Clarification on pedestrian priority at junctions [1]
When people are crossing or waiting to cross at a junction, other traffic should give way. Drivers should allow pedestrians to cross and not wave them across.

3. Guidance on cyclist road positioning [1]  
Cyclists should ride in the center of lanes on quieter roads, in slower-moving traffic, and when approaching junctions, to make themselves as clearly visible as possible.

4. Advice on safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking cyclists [1]
Drivers should leave at least 1.5 meters when passing cyclists at speeds under 30mph, and give them more space when overtaking at higher speeds.

5. Recommendation of the 'Dutch Reach' technique [1]
Drivers and passengers should open vehicle doors using their hand on the opposite side to the door they are opening. This allows them to turn their head to look over their shoulder for passing cyclists/pedestrians.

6. Strengthened pedestrian priority on pavements and when crossing or waiting to cross the road [1]

7. Confirmation that cyclists can ride two abreast [1]
This can be safer to be more visible and is allowed in most circumstances.

8. Advice on safe passing distances/positioning when overtaking horses [1]
Drivers should pass wide and slow when overtaking horses, treating them as hazards and passing them at a maximum of 10mph.

HOW DO THESE CHANGES AFFECT MY DRIVING TEST?
These new additions can potentially be a question on your theory test and hazard perception test but you need to know these changes to drive safely and failure to comply can lead to minor and in worst case scenraio major faults during your driving test.

WHY WERE THE CHANGES MADE?
The changes aim to improve safety for the most vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders by enhancing awareness and consideration among drivers based on the new hierarchy. You can read further details on these changes by following the links below.

8 KEY HIGHWAY CODE UPDATES EVERY DRIVER NEEDS TO KNOW IN 2024

Changes to the Highway code 2022 citations:
[1] https://www.gov.uk/government/news/the-highway-code-8-changes-you-need-to-know-from-29-january-2022
[2] https://readytopass.campaign.gov.uk
[3] https://www.drivingschoolsinsouthwestlondon.co.uk
[4] https://www.drivingschoolsinsouthlondon.co.uk
[5} https://www.drivingschoolsinsouthwestlondon.co.uk/blog/get-the-official-highway-code-and-flash-cards

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Latest Updates to the Highway Code for 2023
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The Highway Code has seen several significant updates recently, aimed at improving road safety for all users, particularly the most vulnerable. Here’s a detailed overview of the latest changes for 2023:

1. Hierarchy of Road Users
The introduction of a new hierarchy prioritizes road users based on their vulnerability. This hierarchy places pedestrians at the top, followed by cyclists, horse riders, motorcyclists, cars, vans, and large vehicles like HGVs. The goal is to ensure that those who can cause the greatest harm have the most responsibility to reduce danger to others.
This hierarchy of road users in order is:

1. Pedestrians
2. Cyclists
3. Horse riders
4. Motorcyclists
5. Cars/taxis
6. Vans/minibuses
7. Large passenger vehicles/heavy goods vehicles

This change emphasises the responsibility of road users to reduce danger to more vulnerable groups.

2. Pedestrian Priority at Junctions
Drivers, motorcyclists, and cyclists must now give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from which they are turning. This change aims to enhance pedestrian safety at junctions.

3. Cyclist Positioning
Cyclists are advised to ride in the center of their lane on quiet roads, in slower-moving traffic, and when approaching junctions or narrow sections of road. This makes cyclists more visible and reduces the risk of accidents.

4. Safe Passing Distances
When overtaking cyclists, drivers must leave at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) at speeds up to 30mph, and more space at higher speeds. For horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles, the required passing distance is at least 2 meters (6.5 feet) at speeds under 10 mph. Similar spacing applies when passing pedestrians walking in the road where there is no pavement.

5. Dutch Reach Method
The Highway Code now recommends the 'Dutch Reach' method for opening car doors. This involves using the hand furthest from the door, prompting the person to look over their shoulder for approaching cyclists or motorcyclists, thereby reducing the risk of dooring accidents.

6. Electric Vehicle Charging
New guidelines have been added for the safe charging of electric vehicles. Drivers should park as close as possible to charging points to avoid creating trip hazards with cables, display warning signs if possible, and return charging cables neatly to minimize obstacles for other road users.

7. Cyclists at Roundabouts
Drivers must give priority to cyclists on roundabouts, allowing them to move across their path as they navigate the roundabout. Overtaking cyclists within their lane on a roundabout is now prohibited.

8. Mobile Phone Use
The rules on mobile phone use while driving have been tightened. It is now illegal to hold and use any mobile device while driving, including when stationary in traffic. This aims to reduce distractions and improve road safety.

9. Overtaking Rules
Drivers are now allowed to cross double white lines to overtake cyclists or horse riders if they are traveling at 10 mph or less, provided it is safe to do so.

These updates to the Highway Code are designed to create safer roads for everyone, particularly the most vulnerable users. Driving schools in South London should ensure that these changes are incorporated into their teaching curriculum to prepare new drivers for the updated rules and enhance overall road safety.

The Highway Code: Essential Rules for All Road User

Comprehensive Reference
The Highway Code serves as a comprehensive reference guide for all aspects of driving, from vehicle maintenance and documentation to rules for specific situations like adverse weather conditions, motorways, and breakdowns. It is an invaluable resource for new drivers to consult throughout their learning journey.

In summary, the Highway Code Handbook 2024 UK is an essential resource for new drivers in the UK because it outlines the legal requirements, prepares them for the theory test, promotes safe driving practices, explains road signs and markings, introduces the hierarchy of road users, and serves as a comprehensive reference guide for all aspects of driving that you will need to enable you to pass your driving test.

The Highway Code: Essential Rules for All Road Users in south London
But what is the Highway code? The Highway Code is a comprehensive set of rules and guidelines for safe road use in England, Scotland, and Wales.
It applies to all types of road users, including:

• Pedestrians
• Mobility scooter users  
• Cyclists (including E-Bikes)
• Electric Scooters
• Horse riders
• Drivers of motor vehicles
• Motorcyclists

Following the Highway Code promotes road safety and helps reduce accidents, incidents, and traffic violations. All road users are advised to thoroughly understand and adhere to its rules.

Accessing the Highway Code online or purchase a hard copy

• There are multiple ways to access and reference the Highway Code:
• Order the official book online or purchase it from most bookstores
• Download the app for Apple iOS devices 
• Download the app for Android devices
• Sign up for email alerts on any rule changes
• Follow The Highway Code on Facebook for updates

TOPICS AND SECTIONS
The Highway Code covers a wide range of topics organised into various sections:
Road User Hierarchy and General Rules

• Hierarchy of road users and increased responsibility for those posing greater risk
• General rules for all road users

Rules for Specific User Groups

• Detailed rules for pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders, drivers, and motorcyclists

Using the Road

• Guidance on proper road positioning, overtaking, road junctions, roundabouts, crossings, reversing

Driving Conditions and Situations  

• Rules for adverse weather, motorways, breakdowns, roadworks, level crossings

Signals, Signs, and Markings

• Understanding traffic light signals, signs, road markings, vehicle markings

Legal Information

• Details on driving laws, penalties, vehicle maintenance, first aid

The Highway Code is regularly updated to incorporate new rules and guidance promoting safer road use for everyone. Reviewing the latest version is crucial for all road users.

Importance for Driving Tests
Having a strong working knowledge of the Highway Code is essential for passing the driving theory and practical driving tests in the UK. The code's rules and best practices are extensively covered on these examinations.

By understanding and applying the Highway Code, all road users can contribute to a safer, more responsible driving environment that accounts for the needs of everyone on the road.

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