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Essential Rules of The Highway Code

Apr 23, 2025

Notes on The Highway Code (Updated 17/09/2023)

Introduction

  • Applicable to England, Scotland, and Wales.
  • Essential reading for promoting road safety and supporting transport systems.
  • Legal requirements highlighted with MUST/MUST NOT.
  • Advisory rules indicated with should/should not.

Key Rules and Guidelines

Pedestrians

  • Use pavements or footways if available.
  • If no pavement, walk on the right side of the road to face oncoming traffic.
  • Wear or carry something bright for visibility in poor lighting.

Powered Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters

  • Class 1: manual wheelchair.
  • Class 2: powered wheelchairs and scooters for pavements (max speed 4 mph).
  • Class 3: road legal (max speed 8 mph).
  • Must obey pedestrian and vehicle rules when on respective paths.

Cyclists

  • Wear helmets and bright clothing for visibility.
  • At night, cycles must have white front and red rear lights.
  • Use cycle lanes and tracks where available but not obligatory.
  • Must not cycle on pavements.

Motorcyclists

  • Helmets mandatory for riders and pillion passengers.
  • Bright, reflective clothing recommended.
  • No passengers if on provisional license.

Drivers and Motorcyclists

  • Ensure vehicle is roadworthy.
  • Never drive under the influence of drink or drugs.
  • Seat belts mandatory. Child restraints required according to height and age.
  • Do not use hand-held devices while driving.

General Guidance for All Road Users

  • Follow signals, road signs, and lane markings consistently.
  • Maintain safe distances and adhere to speed limits.
  • Adapt speed according to road, traffic, and weather conditions.

Special Conditions

  • Adverse Weather: Use headlights when visibility is below 100m.
  • Motorways: Certain vehicles and provisional license holders prohibited.
  • Roadworks: Follow signs and keep a safe distance.

Emergencies and Breakdowns

  • In a breakdown, prioritize safety, use hazard lights, and call for help if needed.
  • Use emergency areas if available and follow the guidance of traffic officers.

Important Legal Aspects

  • Vehicle documentation: License, insurance, and MOT must be valid and up-to-date.
  • Penalties for offences include fines, points, and disqualification.

Special Considerations

  • Extra care for vulnerable road users such as children, disabled, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
  • Always give way to pedestrians at crossings.
  • Be cautious in shared spaces with cyclists and horse riders.

Annexes

  • Detailed rules and safety advice for various road users.
  • Includes guidelines for vehicle maintenance and security.
  • Provides an overview of penalties and legal requirements.

Conclusion

  • The Highway Code aims to ensure safety and efficiency on roads for all users.
  • Continuous learning and adherence to these rules are crucial for road safety.