Millions of UK motorists are being issued an urgent warning to familiarise themselves with a significant change to the Highway Code, set to be enforced from September, which could see drivers hit with hefty fines.
The new regulation, often referred to as the 'September Rule', introduces a formal 'hierarchy of road users'. This system prioritises the safety of the most vulnerable people on the road, meaning those in larger, heavier vehicles bear the greatest responsibility.
What is the New 'Hierarchy of Road Users'?
The core principle of the update is simple: those who can do the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger they may pose to others. This creates a clear chain of responsibility on the road.
At the top of this hierarchy are pedestrians, especially children, older adults, and disabled people. They are followed by cyclists, then motorcyclists, horse riders, and finally drivers of cars, taxis, and vans. Large passenger and heavy goods vehicles sit at the bottom, bearing the most responsibility.
How Could It Lead to a £1,000 Fine?
While the hierarchy itself isn't a direct, finable offence, a failure to adhere to the new guidance that accompanies it could land you in hot water. The updated code provides new guidance on pedestrian priority at junctions.
Drivers and cyclists must now give way to pedestrians waiting to cross a road into which or from which they are turning. This is a major shift from the previous rules. If a driver fails to yield and causes an incident, they could be charged with driving without due care and attention or careless driving. This offence carries an on-the-spot fine of £100 and three penalty points, but if contested and taken to court, the fine can soar to a maximum of £1,000.
Key Changes Every Driver Must Know
- Junction Priority: You must give way to pedestrians waiting to cross at a junction.
- Dutch Reach: The 'Dutch Reach' technique is now official guidance. Use your opposite hand to open the car door, forcing you to look over your shoulder for approaching cyclists.
- Clearer Guidance for Cyclists: Cyclists are advised to ride in the centre of the lane for their own safety in certain situations, such as on quiet roads or in slow-moving traffic.
Motoring experts are urging all road users, especially drivers, to read the updated official Highway Code documentation online to avoid any costly misunderstandings and to ensure everyone's safety on the road this autumn.
