Campaign update

The Government published the latest version of the Highway Code in 2007. Following a sustained and high-profile campaign by CTC, over 40 rules were changed to the benefit of cyclists.

The changes in full

The changes made to the Highway Code vary from the mundane to the fundamental. There are many new rules for cyclists on the use of crossings and for taking care around tramways. Others offer advice on whether cyclists should use cycle facilities. 

New rules 61 and 63 were those that aroused the greatest ire amongst cyclists. For the full details on the wording of these rules see here.

Some of the most useful rules, other than 61 and 63, are paraphrased below:

Rule 60 (old rule 46) - this formalises previous Government regulations that allow flashing lights on cycles as legal when used alone.

Rule 77 (old rule 62) - this suggests that cyclists may find it just as safe to ride around a roundabout as walk around it. Previously the rule had assumed cyclists would walk round.

Rule 147 (old 125) - now includes a plea for drivers not to throw things on the road because it potentially endangers other road-users, especially cyclists and morotcyclists.

Rule 151 (old 129) - in slow moving traffic... "be aware of cyclists and motorcyclists who may be passing on either side" ... has been added.

Rule 156 (old 133) - Single-track roads... "slow down when passing pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders" ... has been added.

Rule 167 (old 143) - Overtaking... Now includes "stay behind if you are following a cyclist approaching a roundabout or junction, and you intend to turn left."

Rule 181 (old 157) - "look out for cyclists when turning right in a junction."

Rule 211 (old 187) -  "When turning right across a line of slow-moving or stationary traffic, look out for cyclists or motorcyclists on the inside of the traffic you are crossing. Be especially careful when turning, and when changing direction or lane. Be sure to check mirrors and blind spots carefully." has been added.

Rule 227 (old 202) - Driving in wet weather... "take extra care around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders" ... has been added.

Rules 281 - 287 (old 255 - 261) - We argued successfully that "accidents" be renamed "incidents".

Rule 288 (old 262) - Road works... Added: "take extra care near cyclists and motorcyclists as they are vulnerable to skidding on grit, mud or other debris at road works"

There is also a new paragraph on cycle training in the section entitled "You and your bicycle".