The Highway Code is a collection of rules and guidelines for all road users across the UK, designed to keep everybody safe while travelling.
Several updates to the Code have been introduced in recent years, yet experts caution that too few people are aware of them. According to Age Co, one in five drivers over the age of 50 admit that they have not revisited the Highway Code since passing their tests, a significant cause for concern for all road users.
Among the most frequently misunderstood regulations is the Dutch Reach rule. The Dutch Reach requires a driver or passenger to use their opposite hand to open the car door, causing their body to rotate towards the rear of the vehicle, enabling them to spot any approaching traffic.
It is also intended to prevent injuries to cyclists passing by - however Age Co revealed that "almost half of the respondents said that they weren't sure about this one".
While the Highway Code alone does not constitute law, many of its directives are underpinned by legislation and therefore carry legal weight, according to the RAC. Those points supported by the law are clearly identified in the document by wording like 'MUST', 'MUST NOT', rather than 'should' or 'should not'.
Gov.uk guidance states: "The Highway Code is essential reading for all road users, including pedestrians, mobility scooter users, cyclists, horse riders, drivers and motorcyclists."
Age Co added: "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."
