The Highway Code has been updated in both Jersey and Guernsey to help improve road safety. The changes introduce a hierarchy, putting pedestrians and cyclists first. Here’s the lowdown:

1. Hierarchy of road users
   The changes place those most at risk – pedestrians and cyclists – at the top of the hierarchy. Those in charge of vehicles that can cause the greatest harm in the event of a collision bear the greatest responsibility to take care and reduce the danger they pose to others. This applies most strongly to drivers of large goods and passenger vehicles, vans/minibuses, cars/taxis and motorcycles.
   
   Cyclists, horse riders and drivers of horse drawn vehicles likewise have a responsibility to reduce danger to pedestrians.
   
   
2. People crossing the road at junctions
   The updates clarify that when people are crossing or waiting to cross at a junction, other traffic should give way.
   
   If you’re looking to turn into a road and a pedestrian is crossing it or waiting to cross, you must now give them priority, even if there’s no zebra crossing.
   
   
3. Overtaking when driving or cycling
   Motorists should give cyclists more room when overtaking – at least 1.5 metres. They should allow at least 2 metres of space and keep to a low speed when passing people walking in the road where there is no pavement.
   
   
4. Parking, charging and leaving vehicles
   Where people driving or passengers in a vehicle are able to do so, they should open the door using their hand on the opposite side to the door they are opening. For example, using their left hand to open a door on their right-hand side.
   
   When using an electric vehicle charging point, for example with an EVie, people should park close to the charge point and avoid creating a trip hazard.

Ride safe!