Motorists over 50 given Highway Code warning over new rules
Motorists in the UK aged over 50 have been prompted to brush up on the Highway Code, as numerous updates have been made since they first passed their driving tests. Ignorance of these changes could lead to penalties, points on their licence, and even instances of dangerous driving.
The Highway Code serves as a crucial framework of rules and advice designed to ensure the safety of all road users. Recent years have seen several amendments to the code, yet experts are raising concerns that many individuals remain uninformed about these revisions.
Age Co, which is owned by Age UK, has revealed that one in five drivers over 50 confess to not having looked at the Highway Code since they obtained their driving licence. This suggests that a significant number of drivers could be navigating the roads with outdated knowledge of vital regulations.
As reported by LancashireLive, one rule that is frequently misunderstood is the Dutch Reach technique, which was among the 11 new additions to the Highway Code in 2022.
This method, already widespread in Europe, advocates for using the hand opposite the door being opened to prevent accidents involving passing cyclists. The action naturally causes the person to pivot towards the rear of the vehicle, giving them a chance to spot any approaching traffic.
According to Age Co, "almost half of the respondents said that they weren't sure about this one". In the 2022 updates, it was also specified that drivers should maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 metres (five feet) when overtaking cyclists travelling at speeds up to 30mph, and allow even more room when surpassing at greater velocities.
While the Highway Code itself isn't law, many of its directives are legally enforced, as noted by the RAC. The document highlights legal requirements with terms such as "MUST" and "MUST NOT", distinguishing them from mere recommendations indicated by "should" or "should not".
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Gov.uk says: "The Highway Code is essential reading for all road users, including pedestrians, mobility scooter users, cyclists, horse riders, drivers and motorcyclists."
Age Co emphasises the importance of staying informed. It said: "Understanding road safety rules and regulations help keep our roads safe, so it's important to refresh your knowledge regularly to stay up to date with the latest changes."
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