The vast majority of the changes were brought in to protect cyclists and it’s vital motorists are aware of the new guidance. We’ve put together five of the new changes here;
CYCLE IN MIDDLE OF LANES
Cyclists are now given the right to travel in the middle of the road opposed to tucked over on the left-hand side curb. They are required to move over to the left if a faster vehicle comes up behind them, but only if it is safe to do so.
Cyclists will also only move over at junctions if it would be unsafe for drivers to overtake them.
RIDE TWO ABREAST
The guidance now recommends cyclists ride side-by-side in groups of two, this is especially relevant when travelling with inexperienced riders or children.
However, when a car comes up behind they are advised to go back into single file to allow them to safely overtake.
Drivers are also being given more responsibility to watch out for cyclists and those walking or riding a horse, whereas cyclists will have more responsibility to be aware of pedestrians while they are travelling on either cycle lanes or trails.
DRIVERS 5FT OVERTAKING SPACE
Drivers are being advised to give cyclists at least five feet of space when overtaking on any roads – that’s 1.5m in today’s money.
CYCLE LANES
Cyclists no longer have to use cycle lanes, even if they’re free, when riding along the roads.
If the cyclist deems it is safer to do so, they can choose to ride on the road.
PRIORITY OVER TURNING CARS
Drivers will now have to wait for cyclists to pass them before they are able to turn into an oncoming junction. This ruling has been brought in as a result of numerous accidents, particularly in busy city centres with many of them proving to be fatal.
Drivers previously held right of way in such incidents but now that lies with cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders in the same circumstances.
What do you think of the new changes? Let us know in the comments box below.