The new UK Highway Code launched on Saturday 30 January 2022 encourage cyclists to ride in the middle of the road, side by side, in vehicle lanes to be better visible to motorists. Pedestrians and other vulnerable road users such as motorbike drivers and horse riders are now given right of way, and this affects the way transporters drive in the UK.
The new Highway Code specifies the following:
- Cyclists are allowed to enter roads and ride in the centre of the lane
- Pedestrians are allowed to cross the road at junctions without a pedestrian crossing
- Horse riders in country lanes are given right of way
Transporters and motorists now must give way to cyclists at traffic circles and pedestrians crossing roads. This may increase chances of being hit from behind by another vehicle when braking sharply. Traffic circles are designed to ease the flow of traffic, but braking suddenly, especially when driving a heavy or articulated truck to give way to a cyclist may pose significant danger to cyclists, pedestrians and transport vehicles.
To conform to the new Highway Code, licensed Transport drivers need to conduct due diligence with care. Any violation of the Highway Code may result in a suspension of Transport Licence, and Operators must now change the way they drive, and even rewrite operating procedures. The following measures can be applied to remain safe in order to retain their Transport Licence:
- Perform thorough checks before using the vehicle. Ensure the checklist is completed and all requirements fulfilled.
- At all times, try to keep a 360-degree view of the vehicle you are driving. Use mirrors correctly.
- Stick to tachograph rules.
- At a traffic circle, slow down to a speed that is safe to stop quickly to allow a cycle ride into the lane in front of you.
- To avoid cyclists crashing into a door, employ the Dutch Reach. Instead of opening the door with the left hand (as is usual), open it with the right hand. This forces the body to reach around and the head to look back to spot oncoming cyclists or pedestrians.
- Drive slowly in congested areas and always be alert
- Use mirrors effectively to spot vulnerable road users
- Indicate early before turning
- Watch the movement of trailers and avoid sharp turns where necessary
- Cyclists can be unpredictable, but be on the lookout for them all the time
- Avoid fatigue when driving
At all costs: Minimise insurance risk and the possible suspension of Transport Licence!