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Rachel Pugh & Estel Farell Roig & Sonia Sharma

Drivers warned of new Highway Code rule that changes who gets priority at roundabouts

A new Highway Code rule has come into force that changes who gets priority at roundabouts.

Previously, drivers were given priority at roundabouts. However, under a new section of rule 186, road users will now be forced to give priority to cyclists on roundabouts.

It states: "You should give priority to cyclists on the roundabout. They will be travelling more slowly than motorised traffic.

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"Give them plenty of room and do not attempt to overtake them within their lane. Allow them to move across your path as they travel around the roundabout.

" Cyclists, horse riders and horse drawn vehicles may stay in the left-hand lane when they intend to continue across or around the roundabout and should signal right to show you they are not leaving the roundabout.

"Drivers should take extra care when entering a roundabout to ensure that they do not cut across cyclists, horse riders or horse drawn vehicles in the left-hand lane, who are continuing around the roundabout."

Another change on the Highway Code will advise drivers on the best technique to open a vehicle's door, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Commonly known as the 'Dutch Reach', the technique aims to encourage drivers to look over their shoulder and check for other road users when opening the door.

According to CyclingUK, every year more than 500 people across England, Wales and Scotland are injured because someone opens a car door into their path.

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