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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Benjamin Roberts-Haslam

Drivers warned of 'confusing' Highway Code rule change

Drivers have been warned by the AA about potential "confusion and dangerous situations" following the latest Highway Code rule change.

The change, set to come into effect on January 29, will see motorists having to giveaway to cyclists and pedestrians at junctions going forward.

The AA conducted a survey, speaking to more than 13,000 drivers, which found only a third were aware of the change.

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The motoring association is now urging people to educate themselves on the new guidance, yet to be approved by parliament, the MailOnline reports.

Under the revised rules, drivers and cyclists must give way if pedestrians are waiting to cross the road into which or from which they are turning, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Motorists must also give way to pedestrians and cyclists on a parallel crossing.

For their safety, cyclists must also ride in the centre of the lane when approaching junctions and on quiet roads.

Additionally, the updated Highway Code will also offer guidance on safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking cyclists and horse riders.

The original Highway Code gave vehicles priority at junctions, so pedestrians only had right of way if they were already on the junction road.

The rule is being introduced as part of a 'hierarchy of road users', which recognises that road users who pose the greatest risk to others have a higher level of responsibility.

This is to ensure road users who can do the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to others.

It means drivers will have a greater responsibility to look out for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, whereas a cyclist will have a greater responsibility to look out for pedestrians.

The guidance is intended to make roads safer for everyone.

The AA told the MailOnline that people should understand the new rules ahead of time, "because any confusion is likely to lead to avoidable collisions".

A spokesman for the Department for Transport said: "The proposed upcoming changes to The Highway Code will improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders and were widely reported when they were announced earlier this year."

To view the updated Highway Code rules, click here.

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