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National
Rachel Pugh & Alex Evans & Maria Cassidy

How the new Highway Code rules will change how drivers overtake on the roads

UK drivers have been warned about new changes on overtaking in the Highway Code.

The rules have been changed to give cyclists more priority when they are on the roads.

The Manchester Evening News reports that the amendment to the Highway Code will come into force on January 29.

The new change is one of the raft of tweaks being made to the driving laws and now it will enshrine a minimum safe distance for passing bikes.

Go here for the very latest live traffic and travel news and North East updates

The amendments to Highway Code Rule 163 now state: "leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph, and give them more space when overtaking at higher speeds.

"Pass horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles at speeds under 10mph and allow at least 2 metres of space.

"Allow at least 2 metres of space and keep to a low speed when passing a pedestrian who is walking in the road (for example, where there is no pavement).

"Take extra care and give more space when overtaking motorcyclists, cyclists, horse riders, horse drawn vehicles and pedestrians in bad weather (including high winds) and at night.

"You should wait behind the motorcyclist, cyclist, horse rider, horse drawn vehicle or pedestrian and not overtake if it is unsafe or not possible to meet these clearances."

Other rule changes state that drivers must now give priority to cyclists at roundabouts and junctions.

Cyclists should cycle in the middle of the road to make themselves clearly visible, unless a bike lane is available.

The changes also state that cyclists should take care to avoid obstacles like drains and potholes.

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