The Highway Code

In our Driver Awareness Seminars we often ask “When was the last time you had a look at the Highway Code?” The normal responses we get are: “When I took my driving test many years ago,” and “when my son/daughter/friend was revising for their test”.

For over 75 years The Highway Code has been the official guide to using the roads safely and legally. It is important that all road users - drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians - are aware of the latest rules and advice contained in the latest edition.

The current version of the Highway Code includes key features such as information about stopping, directing powers that have been given to VOSA officers and Highways Agency Traffic Officers. It also includes information about the latest road initiatives of which people might not be aware (High occupancy vehicle lanes, Home Zones and Quiet Lanes, Active Traffic Management Schemes).

Much of the advice in the Highway Code has changed and evolved over time. The basic advice in a Highway Code of 30 years ago may not be applicable today, given increased traffic volumes; larger, faster vehicles; more complex road layouts; updated and new road signage and markings; and many other factors.

All road users have a responsibility to ensure their knowledge is updated, in order to adjust their awareness and actions appropriately, for the benefit of others and for their own safety. As it says in the introduction to the Code - 'Cutting the number of deaths and injuries that occur on our roads every day is a responsibility we all share'.

John Lawrence
Key Fleet