Highway Code
The Highway Code is not just for motorists and car drivers. It also applies to motorcyclists, pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders. If you are driving a vehicle on the highways and motorways of the UK then it is imperative that you are:
• A) aware of the Highway Code and
• B) have a knowledge of what it represents
When you visit the Highway Code web site you can view the different sections relating to the different road users and the signs and markings associated with each class of road user.
The Law
Many of the rules in the Code are legal requirements, and if you disobey these rules you are committing a criminal offence. You may be fined, given penalty points on your licence or be disqualified from driving. In the most serious cases you may be sent to prison. You can identify these rules on their web site by the use of the words MUST / MUST NOT.
Safety code for new drivers
This code will help you drive safely in your first year after passing the driving test, when you are most vulnerable. You should always follow the Highway Code:
• It’s most dangerous driving at night – don’t drive between midnight and 6am unless it’s really necessary.
• Don’t let passengers distract you or encourage you to take risks – tell them that you need to concentrate on the road.
• Never show off or try to compete with other drivers, particularly if they are driving badly.
• Don’t drive if you’ve drunk any alcohol or taken drugs. Some medicines can affect your ability to drive safely – always read the warning on the label.
• Make sure everyone’s wearing a seat belt throughout the journey.
• Keep your speed down – especially on bends.
• Be very careful driving high-powered or sporty cars – even if you learnt to drive in one.
• You must have car insurance – it’s an offence to drive without it.
• You’ll lose your licence if you get 6 penalty points within 2 years of passing your first driving test. You’ll need to pass both tests again to get it back.
Drivers
The Drivers section covers everything you need to know for safe and law abiding motoring in the UK. See below:
• General rules, techniques and advice for all drivers
• Using the road, Road users requiring extra care
• Driving in adverse weather conditions
• Waiting and parking, Motorways, Breakdowns and accidents
• Road works, Railway level crossings, Tramways
It is always sensible to keep up-to-date with the latest Signs and Markings used on our roads. In the event of an accident and subsequent careless driving charge, claiming ignorance of the road signs and markings or traffic lights for example, is no excuse in the eyes of the law!