Asger Risom
Many experienced motorists may be unknowingly breaking the rules of the road, with new research suggesting a large proportion have failed to keep up with key Highway Code updates introduced in recent years.
Drivers over the age of 50 are being urged to revisit the Highway Code after new research revealed widespread gaps in knowledge around updated road safety rules, some of which are backed by law.
Experts say the findings raise concerns not only for older motorists themselves, but for vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians who rely on drivers following the latest guidance.
One in five drivers over 50 haven’t checked the Code since passing their test
Research conducted by Age Co found that around one in five UK motorists aged over 50 admitted they have not looked at the Highway Code since passing their driving test, despite multiple revisions over the past decade.
Among the most poorly understood changes is the so-called Dutch Reach rule, which was added to improve safety for cyclists. The technique requires drivers and passengers to open their car door using the hand furthest from the door, forcing them to turn their body and check for approaching cyclists or traffic.
Age Co found that almost half of respondents were unsure about the rule, highlighting how even widely publicised updates can be missed by long-standing drivers.
Highway Code rules can still carry legal consequences
Although the Highway Code itself is not legislation, motoring groups warn that many of its instructions are directly supported by law. The RAC has stressed that rules marked with words such as “MUST” or “MUST NOT” reflect legal requirements and can be used in court proceedings following collisions.
By contrast, guidance using terms like “should” or “should not” is advisory, but may still be taken into account when assessing responsibility after an incident.
Government guidance on Gov.uk states that the Highway Code is essential reading for all road users, including drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, horse riders and mobility scooter users.
Calls for drivers to refresh their knowledge regularly
Age Co has urged motorists, particularly older drivers who may have learned under very different road conditions, to regularly refresh their understanding of the rules.
The organisation said that keeping up to date with changes is a simple but important step in maintaining road safety, especially as traffic volumes increase and new priorities, such as cyclist protection, are introduced.
With enforcement and liability increasingly tied to Highway Code guidance, experts warn that relying on outdated knowledge could carry serious consequences.
Sources: Age Co, RAC, Gov.uk, Kent Live
