Union highlights new Highway Code rules

The CWU communications union has highlighted changes to the Highway Code which introduce a “hierarchy of road users” principle, after a survey by the AA motoring organisation found at least two in three drivers were unaware of the new rules.

CWU national health and safety officer Dave Joyce explained that the new hierarchy, introduced on 29 January 2022, legally changes road and pavement priorities. It gives stronger priority to pedestrians, particularly when at junctions, and also to cyclists when they are at a junction or are changing direction or lane.

It is based on the principle that those who can do the greatest harm – generally those driving bigger and heavier vehicles such as lorry and truck drivers – have the most responsibility to reduce the danger to others. Pedestrians, particularly children, the elderly and other vulnerable people, are at the top of the hierarchy and take top priority. They are followed by cyclists, horse riders, motor cyclists and cars, with vans, HGVs and buses at the bottom.

Joyce said there are significant changes, and the union is urging its branches and reps to draw these to members’ attention.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1041273/the-highway-code-alteration-to-the-highway-code.pdf