The Highway Code serves as a comprehensive guide for all UK road users, designed to ensure safety on the roads. While numerous updates have been made in recent years, experts are concerned that many drivers remain unaware of these changes.
Research from Age Co reveals that one in five motorists aged over 50 have not looked at the Highway Code since passing their driving tests, raising serious concerns for road safety. Among the most frequently misunderstood regulations is the Dutch Reach rule, reports Kent Live.
The Dutch Reach technique requires drivers or passengers to use their far hand to open the car door, which naturally turns their body towards the rear of the vehicle, enabling them to spot any approaching traffic. This method also helps protect cyclists from injury - yet Age Co found that "almost half of the respondents said that they weren't sure about this one".
Whilst the Highway Code itself isn't legislation, the RAC points out that many of its instructions are underpinned by law and therefore carry legal weight. Those requirements backed by statute are clearly marked in the document with terms such as 'MUST' and 'MUST NOT', as opposed to 'should' or 'should not'.
According to Gov.uk guidelines: "The Highway Code is essential reading for all road users, including pedestrians, mobility scooter users, cyclists, horse riders, drivers and motorcyclists."
Age Co further emphasises: "Understanding road safety rules and regulations help keep our roads safe, so it's important to refresh your knowledge regularly to stay up to date with the latest changes."
