Thousands of drivers unaware of ‘important’ new Highway Code rule change to be introduced

Lincolnshire: Cyclist clashes with motorist over Highway Code

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Out of 10,000 people surveyed by IAM RoadSmart, 85 percent were unaware of the new Dutch Reach. The new driving law means drivers and passengers must use the hand furthest from the door to exit their vehicles.

This naturally ensures drivers and passengers are turned towards the window, making it difficult to spot cyclists.

IAMRoadSmart said the new rule was “especially important” and have urged road users to familiarise themselves with the new policy.

Neil Greig, Director of Policy and Research at IAM RoadSmart said just using the mirrors are “ineffective” at stopping incidents.

He said: “Due to blind spots, dirt, glare, or improper adjustment, mirrors alone are ineffective in attempts to put the brakes on cycling injuries and fatalities caused by drivers and passengers exiting their vehicles.

“The Dutch Reach is also especially important for rear passengers, who of course don’t have the benefit of mirrors.”

The Dutch Reach will be mentioned under an updated Rule 239 in the ‘Waiting and parking’ chapter of the Highway Code.

The Code will make clear the new technique will mean drivers were more likely to “avoid cyclists”.

The new text will read: “You should open the door using your hand on the opposite side to the door you are opening, e.g. use your left hand to open a door on your right-hand side.

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“This will make you turn your head to look over your shoulder.

“You are then more likely to avoid causing injury to cyclists or motorcyclists passing you on the road, or to people on the pavement.”

The new Highway Code updates will also introduce a new “hierarchy of road users” rule.

This means those who have the potential to do the greatest harm will be most responsible to reduce the danger to other road users.

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