2022 has seen some big changes to the Highway Code. It’s all too easy to assume that those changes won’t affect you, but it’s really important to familiarise yourself with them. Otherwise, you could unknowingly find yourself in trouble once you pass your test. To make that process easier for you, Nayland Driving School have put together a list of the most important changes to the Highway Code, so you can read up on them right now!
Hierarchy of road users
First of all, the hierarchy of road users has been amended, with those most at risk at the top. This new hierarchy is as follows:
• Pedestrians
• Cyclists
• Horse riders
• Motorcyclists
• Cars/taxis
• Vans/minibuses
• Large passenger vehicles/heavy goods vehicles
It’s really important to see where you fall on the list, as it is your duty on the road to do all that you can to reduce the danger posed to those who are above you.
Using a mobile phone behind the wheel
If you are guilty of being glued to your phone, you will want to break that habit before you have to pay a hefty fine. Before 2022, it was always illegal to call or text when you were behind the wheel, unless it was in an emergency. From now though, in a reflection of how many of us now use our smartphones, it is also illegal to use your phone to take photos, record videos, scroll through playlists or play games. If you are caught doing any of those things, you will be hit with a £200 fixed-penalty fine. So put your phone away!
Safely charging an electric vehicle
If you are planning on investing in an electric car after you have passed your driving test, then there are some changes to the Highway Code that will apply to you too. Charging point safety is becoming more and more of a priority, and drivers are encouraged to do all that they can to ensure that charging cables do not become a trip hazard. Parking close to the charging point so that the cable doesn’t have to stretch too far is one way of doing so, as is putting the cable back tidily.
Leaving your vehicle safely
As motorists now have a duty of care to pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, leaving your vehicle in a safe manner is something that needs to be considered at all times. A door that is opened carelessly could cause a serious accident, so you should now open the door with the opposite hand to the side the door is on. So, if you are getting out of the driver’s door, you should use your left hand to open it. This will make you turn and look over your shoulder, helping you to see if anyone is coming.
We’re here to help
There are lots of new rules surrounding safe overtaking, holding back on roundabouts, and cyclist safety. These new rules can seem like a lot to take in at once, especially if you are fast approaching your theory or practical driving test. Luckily for you, your Nayland Driving School instructor will be able to provide expert advice. Their knowledge of the rules of the road is something you can rely on, and they will offer pointers during your lesson to demonstrate how you should proceed in a wide range of situations.
Find out more today
If you want to find out more about learning to drive, we are here to answer any questions that you may have. With over 10 years of experience when it comes to helping learner drivers of all ages pass their test, we are the perfect people to help you gain skill and confidence in full accordance with all the rules of the road – including all of the new ones!
