Since the success of our athletes in the London 2012 Olympics as well as the interest in healthier and cheaper transportation during the COVID-19 pandemic, cycling has been on the rise in the UK. More people are on 2 wheels and sharing the roads with drivers, which has led to highway code updates to benefit everyone.
Whether you’re new to driving or cycling, or it’s been a while since you last opened your highway code (your secret’s safe with us) here’s all you need to know about the recent changes.
The simple objective of the highway code is to promote road safety. It includes information, advice, guides and mandatory rules for all road users. On 29 January 2022, some rules changed. After a public consultation on a review of The Highway Code to improve safety, 8 new rules were introduced as well as 49 updates to existing ones. Over 20,000 people responded to the consultation, including members of the public and businesses.
These highway code changes make it clear who has priority as transport evolves, to make the roads safer for everyone.
It may take some time for everyone to familiarise themselves with the new rules, so be patient, and as always, bike safety is a priority. Always wear a helmet and safety gear and be visible with reflective clothing and accessories. The Curve Bike light and GPS tracker is an all-in-one safety cycling device designed to give you confidence on the road. The built-in smart technology knows if you fall, and if you don’t get back on the saddle it’ll send your location to your chosen contact.
If you’re a driver, the changes mean you will often bear the responsibility of reducing danger to others. But cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians must also understand their responsibility.
The ‘Dutch Reach’ technique is now recommended when getting out of your car. This means you should open the door using the hand on the opposite side to the door you are opening. This prompts you to check for any cyclists, motorcyclists, and people nearby.
Drivers should always check for cyclists
When using shared spaces, cyclists should
To read the changes in more detail, the online version of the updated Highway Code can be found here. Hard copies will be available to buy in stores from April 2022.
Curve Bike light and GPS Tracker app controlled features and accuracy of location subject to Vodafone network coverage and GPS signal. Not all movements or impacts may be detected and the device is not connected to the brake on the bike and instead detects deceleration, so may not detect all braking occurrences Connectivity subscription required and Terms apply. See FAQs for more info. Never operate your phone when cycling and continue to use all additional safety measures you would normally take when operating a bike.
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