Research by the AA has highlighted a concerning number of drivers who are still unaware of important changes made to the Highway Code in 2022. These changes introduced a "hierarchy of responsibility" aimed at protecting the most vulnerable road users.
The hierarchy rule places greater responsibility on those who have the potential to cause the most harm. It states that drivers of larger vehicles, like trucks and buses, bear the most responsibility in reducing the danger they pose to others. This means car drivers have more responsibility towards cyclists, while truck and bus drivers have more responsibility towards car drivers. Similarly, cyclists need to be more careful around pedestrians and horse riders.
Despite these changes, the AA found that 42% of drivers remain unaware of their new responsibilities—30% didn’t know the rule existed, and 12% thought it was untrue.
The AA is calling for ongoing efforts to raise awareness, especially among experienced drivers. “Three in 10 drivers admit they haven’t looked at the Highway Code since they passed their test,” says the managing director of AA Accident Assist, Tim Rankin.
"New drivers and those learning to drive will be the ones most aware of the update, but it is long-standing motorists who need to be contacted to ensure they know the rules."
The AA suggests that awareness campaigns could be integrated into government communications, like car tax reminders and license renewals, to ensure drivers are up to date with the rules.
