Explained: The “Heirarchy” of road users changes
There will be a “hierarchy of road users” in the new version of the Highway Code.
The pyramid will be based on the idea that those who can do the greatest harm – for example, lorry drivers – have the greatest responsibility to avoid hurting others.
Pedestrians, and especially children, the elderly and other vulnerable people, will be at the top.
They’ll be followed by cyclists, horse riders, motorcyclists and cars, with vans, HGVs and buses at the bottom.
Generally the bigger and heavier you are. the more responsibility you have to those smaller and more vulnerable than you.
It means that it will be clearer who’s at fault, though there are no new offences under the guidance.
