Nearly Four Years On, Many Drivers Still Struggle with Highway Code Changes

Motorists continue to face confusion over updates to the Highway Code introduced in January 2022, despite the rules being the most significant overhaul in a generation.

The changes were designed to enhance safety for vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders, but surveys indicate that awareness and compliance remain inconsistent.

A key feature of the new Code is a revised hierarchy of road users, placing those most at risk of injury at the top and requiring drivers to exercise greater responsibility around them. Drivers must now give priority to pedestrians crossing or waiting at junctions, while cyclists going straight at junctions have priority over turning vehicles. Specific overtaking rules also require motorists to allow at least 1.5 metres when passing cyclists at speeds up to 30mph, with larger distances for higher speeds, and two metres for horses or pedestrians.

The Code also clarifies that cyclists may ride two abreast and take central lane positions when appropriate.

Despite these changes, research suggests many drivers remain unsure about how the new rules should be applied. RAC research found that 49 per cent of drivers believed the modifications would make pedestrians less safe, while only 17 per cent thought they would improve safety.

Department for Transport data showed awareness rose from 36 per cent in January 2022 to 58 per cent by August 2022, but behavioural change lagged behind. IAM RoadSmart research also found that one in five drivers were still unaware of the updates shortly after they were introduced.

To tackle knowledge gaps, Co-Pilot developed an educational film narrated by actor Martin Clunes. The two-minute video, which won a highly commended award at this year’s Prince Michael of Kent International Road Safety Awards, uses humour and visual demonstrations to explain turning and overtaking rules. Police forces, local authorities, and fire services requested such accessible materials to help communicate the changes effectively.

An independent evaluation involving over 250 drivers found that the film significantly improved understanding. Accuracy on pedestrian priority questions increased from 67 per cent to 99 per cent, while knowledge of safe overtaking distances nearly doubled from 37 per cent to 73 per cent.

Dr Elizabeth Box, behavioural science consultant at Co-Pilot, said: “Our peer-reviewed evaluation shows what can be achieved when we apply behavioural science rigorously and work collaboratively. The results highlight the value of combining theory-driven design with practitioner insight.”

James Evans, CEO and founder of Co-Pilot, added: “This intervention shows the strength of what we can achieve collectively when we combine shared expertise, pooled resources, and a commitment to evidence.”

Authorities continue to urge all motorists to review the Highway Code updates and apply them consistently, stressing that doing so is crucial for the safety of all road users.