Changes to The Highway Code, including the hierarchy of road-users and the 'Dutch Reach' are set to change from 29 January 2022.

If approved by Parliament, a hierarchy of road-users will be introduced this weekend, ensuring quicker or heavier modes of travel have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to others on the road.

Cyclists will also receive fresh guidance to ride in the centre of a lane on quieter roads, in slower-moving traffic and at the approach to junctions in order to make themselves as clearly visible as possible. 

Motorists will be encouraged to adopt the so-called ‘Dutch Reach’, opening the door next to them with the opposite hand so they look over their shoulder, meaning they’re less likely to injure passing cyclists and pedestrians.

The new updates are advisory, so non-compliance will not result in a fine.

Active Travel Commissioner for England, Chris Boardman, said: “It shouldn’t take bravery to cross a road or ride to school with kids, but sometimes it feels that way. 

“These changes to the Highway Code clarify our responsibility to each other and simply reinforce what good road users already do. This refresh does more than offer guidance though, it makes our towns, cities and villages nicer places to live.”

The government recognises the importance of The Highway Code keeping pace with the way in which people get about, as well as with changes to transport infrastructure. 

For example, the updates recognise new cycle-friendly signals and cycle junctions, so people know how to use modern carriageways. 

Cyclists are also encouraged to consider training in order to have the skills, knowledge and confidence to ride safely and responsibly on the road.