Experts are concerned recent Highway Code changes could be “more dangerous”, with many drivers not sure about the rules of the road.
A survey from the RAC found 50% of motorists were unsure if the changes had made the roads safer for pedestrians. And only 18% said it had made the roads safer for people on foot.
While 31% of British motorists said pedestrians face even greater danger at junctions since the motoring measures were introduced, reports the Daily Star.
John Kushnick, Legal Operations Director at National Accident Helpline, has called for more education to ensure road users understand the rules better.
pedestrians face even greater danger at junctions since the motoring measures were introduced.
He says more education would reduce crashes as well as decrease the numbers of pedestrians injured or killed on the road.
Craig Delahaye, Associate Director of Legal Operations at National Accident Helpline, also warned Highway Code changes could make things “more dangerous”.
He said: “The number of people unsure whether the Highway Code changes made a difference to pedestrian safety is indicative of the need of further education on the changes implemented two years ago to improve road safety.”
The expert explained changes made two years ago that established a hierarchy of road users. This system places pedestrians at the top, giving them the highest priority, with HGVs at the bottom with the least priority, and the most responsibility.
Government road casualty statistics show 30% of pedestrian fatalities and 39% of serious injuries happen at junctions. The RAC found a third (31%) of drivers believe pedestrians are in even more danger at junctions since the measures were introduced.
Craig said: “Many car drivers still do not understand that they should give way to pedestrians crossing side roads.
“There’s a common misconception that, because drivers pay road tax, they rule the roads – but this is of course incorrect as roads are paid for out of general taxation.
“Therefore, it’s vital that all road users, pedestrians included, fully understand the Highway Code and the Hierarchy of Road users.”
Craig also stressed the importance of educating drivers about the road rules. He added: “Any changes to the Highway Code always need to be acknowledged and fully digested by all road users to guarantee that everyone is using the roads correctly and safely.”
