Most drivers in the UK have not read the Highway Code to learn about recent updates and changes, according to the AA. The motoring group says more than three-fifths of UK drivers have not read updates to the Highway Code made earlier this year, reports the BBC.
The AA survey found almost 7,000 of 13,387 drivers asked had heard about the new rules but had not read them yet, while 1,118 drivers were completely unaware. The changes include pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders having greater priorities on the road and drivers being told to give much more room when passing them.
Drivers and riders also have to give way to pedestrians crossing at road junctions, and are not allowed to cut across vulnerable users when exiting a junction. Cyclists are advised to ride in the centre of lanes on quieter roads, in slower-moving traffic and when approaching junctions.
Duncan Dollimore, head of campaigns and advocacy at Cycling UK, told the BBC: "The Department for Transport is now promoting a campaign to communicate the changes, however this really needs to be part of a long-term, well-funded awareness campaign."
Cycling UK has created an online toolkit on the new rules.
Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist, said: "While we are pleased that many of the changes can be successfully recalled, we'd like more drivers to know the rules outright so they can keep themselves and others safe. It is in everyone's interest to take every measure that helps avoid collisions and remove confusion from the road, so we urge those that still haven't read the updated code to do so as soon as possible."
The changes to the Highway Code also state drivers and passengers should use the 'Dutch Reach' method - opening a car door with the hand furthest away.
There are also new rules for charging electric cars, for groups of cyclists and for walkers.
