Just this year there was a change to the Highway Code where road users were given a hierarchy.
This meant that new rules were put in place for everyone .
For example, when pedestrians are crossing a road or junction, motorists should now give way to them - even if the pedestrian hasn't started crossing the road, meaning drivers should give way to those who are waiting.
When approaching a zebra crossing, motorists, cyclists and those riding motorcycles should give way to pedestrians at the crossing.
At a parallel crossing motorists should give way to cyclists and pedestrians.
The new hierarchy is as follows:
Pedestrians
Cyclists
Horse Riders
Motorcyclists
Cars/taxis
Vans, minibuses, large passenger vehicles or courier vehicles e.g HGVs & buses
As well as the new road rules, drivers will want to be aware that they way they park could have a massive impact on their bank account as they can be handed a rather hefty fine.
It may seem ridiculous however the change comes after many people have been hit by a car door leading to fatal injuries where the person sadly ends up dying from.
The updated Highway Code rules explains that people cycling should take care when passing parked vehicles making sure that they leave enough room to avoid being hit if a car door is opened, reports BirminghamLive.
But many drivers don't know this.
According to Rule 248 of the Highway Code, you must not park on a road at night facing against the direction of the traffic flow unless in a recognised parking space. Some of the Highway Code isn't enshrouded in law but this rule is backed up by two laws which means you could face criminal prosecution.
The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 and the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 both say drivers must not park on a road at night facing traffic. This means that police could start criminal prosecution if it causes an accident.
According to Scrapcarcomparison.co.uk, vehicles parked the wrong way at night are totally in darkness to drivers passing by and would struggle to see them properly.
This may not apply during the day however as it is easier to see.
A spokesman said: "Motors parked the correct way would be visible and illuminated by headlights bouncing off the rear reflectors.
"We’ve dealt with cars that have been written-off due to a passing car crashing into them as they have partly stuck out from a parking space."
