'Unknown' pedestrian Highway Code rule risks landing drivers with hefty fines and points

'Unknown' pedestrian Highway Code rule risks landing drivers with hefty fines and pointsChanges were made four years ago - but the Department for Transport this week admitted many motorists are ignorant - putting pedestrians and cyclists at riskCommentsLifestyleBen Hurst10:29, 17 Apr 2026Updated 10:30, 17 Apr 2026View ImageDrivers and cyclists must now give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road - but many do not realise this(Image: Getty)Drivers are unaware of breaking a driving law by not giving pedestrians priority at junctions - and also cyclists at islands - meaning they could be putting other road users at risk and be at risk of big fines. A change to the Highway Code in 2022 means drivers should stop for people waiting to cross - not just those already crossing.‌The Department for Tranport this week confirmed concerns and said it was carrying out a new campaign this year to try to educate drivers. Major Highway Code changes introduced in January 2022 established a “hierarchy of road users,” placing greater responsibility on drivers of larger vehicles to protect cyclists, pedestrians, and horse riders.‌Drivers and cyclists must now give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from which they are turning. Motorists must give priority to people cycling on roundabouts, and should not attempt to overtake them within their lane.‌When overtaking cyclists or horse riders, drivers must leave at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) space at speeds up to 30 mph, and 2 meters (6.5 feet) for horse riders at higher speeds.In a new parliamentary written question Liberal Democrat Claire Young asked Transport Secretary of State Heidi Alexander: “With reference to the Road Safety Strategy, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of launching a public information campaign to raise awareness of recent changes to the Highway Code.”Parliamentary under-secretary for transport Lillian Greenwood admitted more work was needed wi...