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Most drivers still don’t know new rules of the road – do you?
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swldx...@gmail.com
Jan 29, 2023, 11:54:39 AM1/29/23
to
Most drivers remain unaware of Highway Code changes one year after they were introduced, a survey suggests.
A YouGov poll commissioned by charity Cycling UK indicated there has been no discernible improvement in awareness of the correct distance for overtaking cyclists when driving.
The Highway Code, which contains advice and rules for people using Britain’s roads, was amended on January 29 last year to provide more protection for vulnerable road users.
Among the changes, it stated:
Motorists should leave a gap of at least 1.5m when driving at up to 30mph, with a wider gap at higher speeds
Cyclists should ride in the centre of lanes on quieter roads, in slower-moving traffic and when approaching junctions
New hierarchy of road users means someone driving has more responsibility to watch out for people cycling, walking or riding a horse.
But a quarter (25%) of the 2,168 British adults surveyed earlier this month for Cycling UK said they knew “nothing at all” about the amendments.
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Just 30% of respondents who drive at least once a week and had some awareness of the update could correctly identify the overtaking guidance.
A similar poll conducted immediately after the new Highway Code was published indicated that only 33% of regular drivers who knew about the changes gave the right response on the overtaking gap.
Cycling UK said the figures demonstrate that the UK Government had failed to properly communicate the changes.
Chief executive Sarah Mitchell said: “A year on since the Highway Code update, the lack of understanding and knowledge of the changes is alarming.
“If widely adopted, these changes can save lives and make the roads better for everyone – but if you’ve not passed your test in the last year, it’s unclear how you would know about them.
“We need government commitment and investment in a long-term awareness campaign of at least three years to help change long-established driving behaviours.
AA president Edmund King said: “It is vital both for cyclists and drivers that the well-intentioned changes highlighted in the new Highway Code one year ago are understood and respected by all road users.
“AA driving schools are doing this with new drivers, but unfortunately this recent research seems to indicate that this is not the case amongst the general public, so more action is needed to promote these potentially life-saving changes.”
A Department for Transport spokesman said: “The changes to the Highway Code aim to improve safety for people cycling, walking and horse riding, and we invested over £1.3m in our Think! campaign which has increased awareness and understanding of the changes over the last year.
“We have worked closely with a group of stakeholders representing all road users to develop the campaign, with many also supporting the campaign on their own channels.”
https://news.stv.tv/scotland/highway-code-most-drivers-dont-know-new-rules-of-the-road-yougov-poll-for-cycling-uk-suggests
Spike
Jan 29, 2023, 1:17:32 PM1/29/23
to
A recent poll by cycling insurance specialist Cycleplan (link is external),
however, indicates that ignorance of the new changes is as equally, if not
more, prevalent amongst cyclists.
The company’s recent survey of 1,000 “regular” cyclists on the Highway Code
changes found that 48 percent were not aware that the changes had been
introduced (a similar figure to when the insurer carried out the same poll
in early 2022).
According to the study, the changes – if they’ve even been read at all –
haven’t led to a safer and more harmonious environment on the roads.
<https://road.cc/content/news/highway-code-18-percent-think-road-safety-has-improved-298887>
Spike
Message has been deleted
Simon Mason
Jan 29, 2023, 1:24:52 PM1/29/23
to
BASTARD.
A cowardly hit-and-run driver has been jailed for three years for causing a collision on a footpath which resulted in a nine-year-old boy losing his leg.
Talented gymnast and dancer Max Clark had been out with family and friends on Rosmead playing fields, off Southcoates Lane, east Hull, to take pictures for a dance class assignment when he was struck by a motorbike being driven along the footpath.
The rider, Jerome Cawkwell, 24, of Cambridge Grove, east Hull, had been going at full speed. He did not have a licence, had not taken a compulsory basic training course to ride provisionally, and was not wearing a helmet.
After fleeing the scene, Cawkwell was arrested at a property at 1.45pm after leaving the bike at an another address.
Cawkwell admitted charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop at the scene of an accident, using a vehicle without insurance, and using a vehicle not in efficient working order when he appeared before magistrates. He was released on bail and sentenced at Hull Crown Court.
Speaking after the sentencing hearing, Chief Inspector Paul Butler said: “Firstly I want to praise Max and his family for their bravery and positivity.
“The injuries Max suffered – on what should have been a happy, carefree, family day out to meet friends – will affect him for the rest of his life.
A cowardly hit-and-run driver has been jailed for three years for causing a collision on a footpath which resulted in a nine-year-old boy losing his leg.
Talented gymnast and dancer Max Clark had been out with family and friends on Rosmead playing fields, off Southcoates Lane, east Hull, to take pictures for a dance class assignment when he was struck by a motorbike being driven along the footpath.
The rider, Jerome Cawkwell, 24, of Cambridge Grove, east Hull, had been going at full speed. He did not have a licence, had not taken a compulsory basic training course to ride provisionally, and was not wearing a helmet.
After fleeing the scene, Cawkwell was arrested at a property at 1.45pm after leaving the bike at an another address.
Cawkwell admitted charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop at the scene of an accident, using a vehicle without insurance, and using a vehicle not in efficient working order when he appeared before magistrates. He was released on bail and sentenced at Hull Crown Court.
Speaking after the sentencing hearing, Chief Inspector Paul Butler said: “Firstly I want to praise Max and his family for their bravery and positivity.
“The injuries Max suffered – on what should have been a happy, carefree, family day out to meet friends – will affect him for the rest of his life.
Spike
Jan 29, 2023, 2:42:48 PM1/29/23
to
Simon Mason <swldx...@gmail.com> wrote:
> BASTARDS
> "They pulled out a bed and tried to get me on it, it really hurt at that
> time but I got in it and they put my detached foot in a plastic bag.
> "The bed got pulled in the ambulance and we set off.
Why call them BASTARDS? They were there to help.
--
Spike
> BASTARDS
> "They pulled out a bed and tried to get me on it, it really hurt at that
> time but I got in it and they put my detached foot in a plastic bag.
> "The bed got pulled in the ambulance and we set off.
Why call them BASTARDS? They were there to help.
--
Spike
Spike
Jan 29, 2023, 2:46:40 PM1/29/23
to
<MasonMode>BASTARD CYCLIST<MasonModeOff>
Woman, 80s, dies after being hit by cyclist
Thames Valley Police said that the woman was hit by a dark grey Btwin
hybrid bicycle on the towpath at Iffley Lock at around 12.40pm on November
20.
She was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford for further
treatment, but she died on Friday (December 2).
The police said that the cyclist was unhurt, and no arrests have been made.
Officers are now appealing for witnesses following the incident.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Ian Stevens, of the joint
operations roads policing unit, said: “First and foremost, my thoughts are
with the family and friends of the woman who has tragically died as a
result of this collision.
“Her next of kin are being offered support at this extremely difficult
time.
“I am appealing for anyone else who witnessed this collision to please come
forward.
“We have been informed the tow path was busy at the time of the collision
with pedestrians walking approximately 10 metres behind the woman at the
time of the collision as well as further pedestrians walking 10 metres in
front of her.
“As such we believe there are witnesses to this collision and wish to speak
to them to establish the events leading to this collision.
“Anyone with information should call 101 or make a report on our website,
quoting reference number 43220523002.”
Spike
Simon Mason
Jan 29, 2023, 2:47:05 PM1/29/23
to
On Sunday, 29 January 2023 at 18:24:52 UTC, Simon Mason wrote:
> BASTARD.
“However, every officer who has spent time with him has remarked on what a happy, positive young man he is. He’s an inspiration and I know he has touched the hearts of all those who have worked on this case.
“I hope that today’s sentence will not only go some way to helping Max and his family to continue to rebuild their lives, but also serve as warning to those who ride motorbikes in a dangerous or antisocial way of the potential consequences of their actions.
“Jerome Cawkwell has not only lost his freedom today but he also has to live with the knowledge that he has changed this little boy’s life forever.
“For those who choose to ignore this warning and continue to put themselves and others at risk, I have a simple message for you. We will not tolerate it and we will find you.”
> BASTARD.
“However, every officer who has spent time with him has remarked on what a happy, positive young man he is. He’s an inspiration and I know he has touched the hearts of all those who have worked on this case.
“I hope that today’s sentence will not only go some way to helping Max and his family to continue to rebuild their lives, but also serve as warning to those who ride motorbikes in a dangerous or antisocial way of the potential consequences of their actions.
“Jerome Cawkwell has not only lost his freedom today but he also has to live with the knowledge that he has changed this little boy’s life forever.
“For those who choose to ignore this warning and continue to put themselves and others at risk, I have a simple message for you. We will not tolerate it and we will find you.”
Spike
Jan 29, 2023, 2:52:12 PM1/29/23
to
--
Spike
Simon Mason
Jan 29, 2023, 2:53:17 PM1/29/23
to
JNugent
Jan 29, 2023, 3:50:24 PM1/29/23
to
On 29/01/2023 06:24 pm, Simon Mason wrote:
> BASTARD.
> A cowardly hit-and-run fully-qualified fairy-cyclist has been jailed for three years for causing a collision on a footpath which resulted in a nine-year-old boy losing his leg.
> BASTARD.
>
> Talented gymnast and dancer Max Clark had been out with family and friends on Rosmead playing fields, off Southcoates Lane, east Hull, to take pictures for a dance class assignment when he was struck by a motorbike being driven [ridden] along the footpath.
>
> The rider, Jerome Cawkwell, 24, of Cambridge Grove, east Hull, had been going at full speed. He did *not* have a licence, had not taken a compulsory basic training course to ride provisionally, and was not wearing a helmet.
>
> After fleeing the scene, Cawkwell was arrested at a property at 1.45pm after leaving the bike at an another address.
>
> Cawkwell admitted charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop at the scene of an accident, using a vehicle without insurance, and using a vehicle not in efficient working order when he appeared before magistrates. He was released on bail and sentenced at Hull Crown Court.
>
> Speaking after the sentencing hearing, Chief Inspector Paul Butler said: “Firstly I want to praise Max and his family for their bravery and positivity.
>
> “The injuries Max suffered – on what should have been a happy, carefree, family day out to meet friends – will affect him for the rest of his life.
All caused by a fully-qualified fairy-cyclist (nothing more than that)
> After fleeing the scene, Cawkwell was arrested at a property at 1.45pm after leaving the bike at an another address.
>
> Cawkwell admitted charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop at the scene of an accident, using a vehicle without insurance, and using a vehicle not in efficient working order when he appeared before magistrates. He was released on bail and sentenced at Hull Crown Court.
>
> Speaking after the sentencing hearing, Chief Inspector Paul Butler said: “Firstly I want to praise Max and his family for their bravery and positivity.
>
> “The injuries Max suffered – on what should have been a happy, carefree, family day out to meet friends – will affect him for the rest of his life.
with delusions of adequacy.
"BASTARD"?
Quite.
JNugent
Jan 29, 2023, 3:51:55 PM1/29/23
to
On 29/01/2023 07:47 pm, Simon Mason wrote:
> On Sunday, 29 January 2023 at 18:24:52 UTC, Simon Mason wrote:
>> BASTARD.
>
> “However, every officer who has spent time with him has remarked on what a happy, positive young man he is. He’s an inspiration and I know he has touched the hearts of all those who have worked on this case.
> “I hope that today’s sentence will not only go some way to helping Max and his family to continue to rebuild their lives, but also serve as warning to those fully-qualified fairy-cyclists who "think" they are able to ride motorbikes in a dangerous or antisocial way of the potential consequences of their actions.
> On Sunday, 29 January 2023 at 18:24:52 UTC, Simon Mason wrote:
>> BASTARD.
>
> “However, every officer who has spent time with him has remarked on what a happy, positive young man he is. He’s an inspiration and I know he has touched the hearts of all those who have worked on this case.
> “Jerome Cawkwell has not only lost his freedom today but he also has to live with the knowledge that he has changed this little boy’s life forever.
> “For those who choose to ignore this warning and continue to put themselves and others at risk, I have a simple message for you. We will not tolerate it and we will find you.”
Let that message go out to *all* fully-qualified fairy-cyclists.
> “For those who choose to ignore this warning and continue to put themselves and others at risk, I have a simple message for you. We will not tolerate it and we will find you.”
JNugent
Jan 29, 2023, 3:53:11 PM1/29/23
to
On 29/01/2023 07:53 pm, Simon Mason wrote:
talking to himself yet again:
> THREE YEARS IN JAIL FOR THE SCUM FULLY-QUALIFIED FAIRY-CYCLIST.
That's all he was qualified for. Just that and nothing more.
talking to himself yet again:
That's all he was qualified for. Just that and nothing more.
Simon Mason
Jan 29, 2023, 3:53:57 PM1/29/23
to
QUOTE: New hierarchy of road users means someone driving has more responsibility to watch out for people cycling, walking or riding a horse.
But a quarter (25%) of the 2,168 British adults surveyed earlier this month for Cycling UK said they knew “nothing at all” about the amendments.ENDS
Why not? Can't they read or something?
But a quarter (25%) of the 2,168 British adults surveyed earlier this month for Cycling UK said they knew “nothing at all” about the amendments.ENDS
Why not? Can't they read or something?
Spike
Jan 29, 2023, 5:18:34 PM1/29/23
to
Simon Mason <swldx...@gmail.com> wrote:
> QUOTE: New hierarchy of road users means someone driving has more
> responsibility to watch out for people cycling, walking or riding a horse.
> But a quarter (25%) of the 2,168 British adults surveyed earlier this
> month for Cycling UK said they knew “nothing at all” about the amendments.ENDS
On the other hand…
> QUOTE: New hierarchy of road users means someone driving has more
> responsibility to watch out for people cycling, walking or riding a horse.
> But a quarter (25%) of the 2,168 British adults surveyed earlier this
> month for Cycling UK said they knew “nothing at all” about the amendments.ENDS
“[A] recent survey of 1,000 “regular” cyclists on the Highway Code changes
found that 48 percent were not aware that the changes had been introduced”.
> Why not? Can't they read or something?
don’t read ‘the rules’ they think they aren’t bound by them. And this
attitude is killing people, on pavements, on towpaths, on pedestrian
crossings. And then there’s the everyday violence meted out to those who
object to being put at risk.
--
Spike
swldx...@gmail.com
Jan 30, 2023, 1:36:02 AM1/30/23
to
QUOTE: “We need government commitment and investment in a long-term awareness campaign of at least three years to help change long-established driving behaviours. ENDS
Even the mobile phone laws haven't sunk into their thick skulls yet. Or the fact that there is no such thing as "road tax" anymore.
Even the mobile phone laws haven't sunk into their thick skulls yet. Or the fact that there is no such thing as "road tax" anymore.
Spike
Jan 30, 2023, 5:50:02 AM1/30/23
to
‘Duty’ is a subset of ‘Tax’, so a ‘tax’ isn’t a ‘duty’, but a ‘duty’ is a
‘Tax’.
Only thing is, your thick skull won’t understand the difference.
Talking of thick skulls….
“[A] recent survey of 1,000 “regular” cyclists on the Highway Code changes
found that 48 percent were not aware that the changes had been introduced”.
bother with reading the Highway Code, when you can punch your way out of
trouble.
Didn’t work for this cyclist thug:
<https://metro.co.uk/2020/09/10/satisfying-moment-cyclist-who-punched-pedestrian-60-is-ripped-off-his-bike-by-hero-firemen-13252423/>
Satisfying moment cyclist who punched pedestrian, 60, is ripped off his
bike by hero firemen
Surveillance footage captured the cyclist, named by police as Daniel Biggs,
53, as he rode behind the 60 year-old woman in Brooklyn, New York, on
August 26 and punch her in the mouth.
She was knocked to the ground by the force of the unprovoked attack. But
the attacker said to be Biggs soon found himself getting a taste of his own
medicine after being pursued by three firemen from a local firehouse who
saw what he did.
Video shows them running down the pavement, picking up speed to catch up
with the cyclist. Moments later, he is yanked off his bike and pinned to
the ground, with police then called to make an arrest over Biggs’ alleged
attack.
Police say Biggs put up a fight after the takedown, and managed to leave a
firefighter with a black eye while attempting to escape.
Locals told CBSNY that alleged his victim was well-liked in the area – but
also expressed surprise at the usually-unassuming Biggs’ sudden burst of
alleged violence.
Biggs has been charged with crimes including assault and alleged assault,
and was freed on bail after being arraigned. No motive for the attack has
been given.
He has a string of previous arrests for crimes including assault and
robbery.
The clip of his capture has been widely shared online, with online
commenters praising the firefighters for getting involved.
One internet user who re-shared the video wrote: ‘Don’t forget Firefighters
are HUGE Patriots especially FDNY!
‘They also work very closely with the NYPD all the time! They are good
people & will@not stand for crime. @fdny @nypd THANK YOU.’
--
Spike
swldx...@gmail.com
Jan 30, 2023, 6:37:06 AM1/30/23
to
I dont know that its ignorance of the rules thats fully the problem and I dont put much store in these kinds of surveys anyway
I look at the issues Ive encountered with drivers just the past week, none of them came about as ignorance of any new rules, we werent going to stop roadside and debate that they left me as much room as passing a car instead of 1.5metres, or that trying to undertake me as I exited a roundabout didnt meet giving me priority or follow the hierachy of road users.
They were being done in the full knowledge they broke the highway code, law etc etc but done because well who's going to stop them ? Im just a cyclist on a bike, theyre in a car and know they can bully me out of their way because I dont want to become a KSI, not the police because theyre virtually invisible on the roads, not the smiley face cameras because they dont even record number plates, consequently knowledge of the rules is irrelevant, theres no-one around enforcing any of them.
there was a report in the press this week a driver had been fined via cctv for driving into a bus lane, to get out of the way of a police van on an emergency call, who otherwise would have been blocked behind.
how outrageous you think, as surely thats the one time a bus lane fine needs to be overturned, then the council told their side of the story, the driver moved into the bus lane to let the police van through,which they said would have overturned the fine had the driver then not continued to drive along the whole length of the bus lane. Basically even though they knew the rule about not driving in a bus lane, theyd figured moving out of the police vans way was enough to give them a free pass and jump the queue of traffic not using the bus lane.
I look at the issues Ive encountered with drivers just the past week, none of them came about as ignorance of any new rules, we werent going to stop roadside and debate that they left me as much room as passing a car instead of 1.5metres, or that trying to undertake me as I exited a roundabout didnt meet giving me priority or follow the hierachy of road users.
They were being done in the full knowledge they broke the highway code, law etc etc but done because well who's going to stop them ? Im just a cyclist on a bike, theyre in a car and know they can bully me out of their way because I dont want to become a KSI, not the police because theyre virtually invisible on the roads, not the smiley face cameras because they dont even record number plates, consequently knowledge of the rules is irrelevant, theres no-one around enforcing any of them.
there was a report in the press this week a driver had been fined via cctv for driving into a bus lane, to get out of the way of a police van on an emergency call, who otherwise would have been blocked behind.
how outrageous you think, as surely thats the one time a bus lane fine needs to be overturned, then the council told their side of the story, the driver moved into the bus lane to let the police van through,which they said would have overturned the fine had the driver then not continued to drive along the whole length of the bus lane. Basically even though they knew the rule about not driving in a bus lane, theyd figured moving out of the police vans way was enough to give them a free pass and jump the queue of traffic not using the bus lane.
JNugent
Jan 30, 2023, 8:25:31 AM1/30/23
to
On 29/01/2023 08:53 pm, Simon Mason wrote:
> QUOTE: New hierarchy of road users means someone driving has more responsibility to watch out for people fairy-cycling, walking or riding a horse.
>
> But a quarter (25%) of the 2,168 British adults surveyed earlier this month for Fairy Cycling UK said they knew “nothing at all” about the amendments.ENDS
who are functionally literate.
The real question is whether you can find even one who is trustworthy
and credible.
> QUOTE: New hierarchy of road users means someone driving has more responsibility to watch out for people fairy-cycling, walking or riding a horse.
>
> But a quarter (25%) of the 2,168 British adults surveyed earlier this month for Fairy Cycling UK said they knew “nothing at all” about the amendments.ENDS
>
> Why not? Can't they read or something?
I expect you might be able to find one or two people at Fairy-Cycling UK
> Why not? Can't they read or something?
who are functionally literate.
The real question is whether you can find even one who is trustworthy
and credible.
JNugent
Jan 30, 2023, 8:29:58 AM1/30/23
to
On 30/01/2023 11:37 am, swldx...@gmail.com wrote:
> I dont know that its ignorance of the rules thats fully the problem and I dont put much store in these kinds of surveys anyway
Semi-literate at best. 5/10.
> I dont know that its ignorance of the rules thats fully the problem and I dont put much store in these kinds of surveys anyway
>
> I look at the issues Ive encountered with drivers just the past week, none of them came about as ignorance of any new rules, we werent going to stop roadside and debate that they left me as much room as passing a car instead of 1.5metres, or that trying to undertake me as I exited a roundabout didnt meet giving me priority or follow the hierachy of road users.
Ignorance of basic grammatical rules, spelling, punctuation, etc. 4/10.
> I look at the issues Ive encountered with drivers just the past week, none of them came about as ignorance of any new rules, we werent going to stop roadside and debate that they left me as much room as passing a car instead of 1.5metres, or that trying to undertake me as I exited a roundabout didnt meet giving me priority or follow the hierachy of road users.
> They were being done in the full knowledge they broke the highway code, law etc etc but done because well who's going to stop them ? Im just a cyclist on a bike, theyre in a car and know they can bully me out of their way because I dont want to become a KSI, not the police because theyre virtually invisible on the roads, not the smiley face cameras because they dont even record number plates, consequently knowledge of the rules is irrelevant, theres no-one around enforcing any of them.
>
> there was a report in the press this week a driver had been fined via cctv for driving into a bus lane, to get out of the way of a police van on an emergency call, who otherwise would have been blocked behind.
>
> how outrageous you think, as surely thats the one time a bus lane fine needs to be overturned, then the council told their side of the story, the driver moved into the bus lane to let the police van through,which they said would have overturned the fine had the driver then not continued to drive along the whole length of the bus lane. Basically even though they knew the rule about not driving in a bus lane, theyd figured moving out of the police vans way was enough to give them a free pass and jump the queue of traffic not using the bus lane.
They might even be free (we all know how important that it is to
fairy-cyclists).
swldx...@gmail.com
Jan 30, 2023, 9:01:25 AM1/30/23
to
Drivers are shocking nowadays. I would fully favour and back having to retake your driving test every 5 to 10 years, and theory around the same or more frequently.
On a motorway for example the lane discipline is shocking.
Very much agree. I find the numbers of motorists trundling along in lane two and even three doing 50 staggering.
I agree. There would then be more clamour along the lines of "I have to take a test every 5 years, why shouldn't you?"
"er, because because you're operating 2 tonnes of machinery and I'm not. Did you know that 4-5 people are killed every day another 70 or so seriously injured"?
"A cyclist killed a pedestrian a couple of years ago"
And so on. A few things at work here: (I) our old friend, false equivalence (ii) the way drivers no longer distinguish between "me" "my car" - they are the same thing to them (iii) "I won't fly because it might crash" - that may be great for the environment, but ignores the thousands of flights that operate safely every day. The same person will happily travel in a car, of course.
On a motorway for example the lane discipline is shocking.
Very much agree. I find the numbers of motorists trundling along in lane two and even three doing 50 staggering.
I agree. There would then be more clamour along the lines of "I have to take a test every 5 years, why shouldn't you?"
"er, because because you're operating 2 tonnes of machinery and I'm not. Did you know that 4-5 people are killed every day another 70 or so seriously injured"?
"A cyclist killed a pedestrian a couple of years ago"
And so on. A few things at work here: (I) our old friend, false equivalence (ii) the way drivers no longer distinguish between "me" "my car" - they are the same thing to them (iii) "I won't fly because it might crash" - that may be great for the environment, but ignores the thousands of flights that operate safely every day. The same person will happily travel in a car, of course.
Spike
Jan 30, 2023, 9:10:53 AM1/30/23
to
Boo hoo ….poor me…..
--
Spike
Spike
swldx...@gmail.com
Jan 30, 2023, 9:13:42 AM1/30/23
to
Aren't the 'non-enthusiasts', who use their bike as an off-road toy at weekends, far more likely to be counted as 'motorists'?
Brian
Jan 30, 2023, 9:41:31 AM1/30/23
to
swldx...@gmail.com <swldx...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> Most drivers remain unaware of Highway Code changes one year after they
> were introduced, a survey suggests.
>
> A YouGov poll commissioned by charity Cycling UK indicated there has been
> no discernible improvement in awareness of the correct distance for
> overtaking cyclists when driving.
>
> The Highway Code, which contains advice and rules for people using
> Britain’s roads, was amended on January 29 last year to provide more
> protection for vulnerable road users.
>
> Among the changes, it stated:
>
> Motorists should leave a gap of at least 1.5m when driving at up to
> 30mph, with a wider gap at higher speeds
> Cyclists should ride in the centre of lanes on quieter roads, in
> slower-moving traffic and when approaching junctions
> New hierarchy of road users means someone driving has more
> responsibility to watch out for people cycling, walking or riding a horse.
>
It would help if the information was correct:
>
> Most drivers remain unaware of Highway Code changes one year after they
> were introduced, a survey suggests.
>
> A YouGov poll commissioned by charity Cycling UK indicated there has been
> no discernible improvement in awareness of the correct distance for
> overtaking cyclists when driving.
>
> The Highway Code, which contains advice and rules for people using
> Britain’s roads, was amended on January 29 last year to provide more
> protection for vulnerable road users.
>
> Among the changes, it stated:
>
> Motorists should leave a gap of at least 1.5m when driving at up to
> 30mph, with a wider gap at higher speeds
> Cyclists should ride in the centre of lanes on quieter roads, in
> slower-moving traffic and when approaching junctions
> New hierarchy of road users means someone driving has more
> responsibility to watch out for people cycling, walking or riding a horse.
>
Rule 72
Road positioning. When riding on the roads, there are two basic road
positions you should adopt, depending on the situation.
1) Ride in the centre of your lane, to make yourself as clearly visible as
possible, in the following situations
on quiet roads or streets – if a faster vehicle comes up behind you, move
to the left to enable them to overtake, if you can do so safely
in slower-moving traffic - when the traffic around you starts to flow more
freely, move over to the left if you can do so safely so that faster
vehicles behind you can overtake
at the approach to junctions or road narrowings where it would be unsafe
for drivers to overtake you
2) When riding on busy roads, with vehicles moving faster than you, allow
them to overtake where it is safe to do so whilst keeping at least 0.5
metres away, and further where it is safer, from the kerb edge. Remember
that traffic on most dual carriageways moves quickly. Take extra care
crossing slip roads.
With cycling advocates publishing incorrect information, is it any wonder
there are idiot cyclists deliberating riding in the wrong position, causing
altercations, and accidents?
JNugent
Jan 30, 2023, 10:11:09 AM1/30/23
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Spike
Jan 30, 2023, 10:51:16 AM1/30/23
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What an amazing (not) collection of small-minded whingers.
Can’t see anything wrong with what cyclists do, but think they know the
last jot and tittle of the law as it applies to others.
Spike
Spike
Jan 30, 2023, 10:59:20 AM1/30/23
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APPLAUSE
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Spike
swldx...@gmail.com
Jan 30, 2023, 11:51:45 AM1/30/23
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The issue you run into is that "cyclist" vs. "people who cycle" distinction. The UK / other countries with minimal cycling are very different from places where cycling is a mainstream mode of transport.
UK - our roads put off most possible "casual cyclists" because it doesn't feel safe (link is external), convenient (link is external) or pleasant/normal (link is external) to them - at least not compared with driving. So many - of the few people left who do cycle regularly for transport - are "cyclists". That is people with an active interest in cycling who might well read cycling publications. (Also in the UK - many cyclists [ either sense ] are also drivers, few drivers are regular cyclists).
In places where cycling is a normal transport mode simply because it's often the most convenient the vast majority of people aren't "cyclists" (link is external). It's just like most people wouldn't declare themselves to be "walkers" because they walk to the shops, or "runners" even though they occasionally break into a trot if they're in a hurry or even go for a weekly jog.
As ShutTheFrontDawes says our UK system is mostly predicated on "it's your personal responsibility to know the rules and follow them". That is problematic because of human nature - most people don't read manuals or rule books, and fewer remember them. There's also the asymmetry in the burdens of training and responsibility e.g. that required for people to safely use motor vehicles vs. that reasonable for a 10-year-old using a bicycle.
Compare and contrast a system which tries to make spaces for travelling (cycling, walking or driving) more "intuitive" or "self-explanatory and consistent" [1] (link is external) [2] (link is external). (Note that system still has training though - in that case integrated into the education system (link is external)).
UK - our roads put off most possible "casual cyclists" because it doesn't feel safe (link is external), convenient (link is external) or pleasant/normal (link is external) to them - at least not compared with driving. So many - of the few people left who do cycle regularly for transport - are "cyclists". That is people with an active interest in cycling who might well read cycling publications. (Also in the UK - many cyclists [ either sense ] are also drivers, few drivers are regular cyclists).
In places where cycling is a normal transport mode simply because it's often the most convenient the vast majority of people aren't "cyclists" (link is external). It's just like most people wouldn't declare themselves to be "walkers" because they walk to the shops, or "runners" even though they occasionally break into a trot if they're in a hurry or even go for a weekly jog.
As ShutTheFrontDawes says our UK system is mostly predicated on "it's your personal responsibility to know the rules and follow them". That is problematic because of human nature - most people don't read manuals or rule books, and fewer remember them. There's also the asymmetry in the burdens of training and responsibility e.g. that required for people to safely use motor vehicles vs. that reasonable for a 10-year-old using a bicycle.
Compare and contrast a system which tries to make spaces for travelling (cycling, walking or driving) more "intuitive" or "self-explanatory and consistent" [1] (link is external) [2] (link is external). (Note that system still has training though - in that case integrated into the education system (link is external)).
Brian
Jan 30, 2023, 12:12:41 PM1/30/23
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Just don’t make a habit of it.
😀
swldx...@gmail.com
Jan 30, 2023, 1:02:21 PM1/30/23
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Actually I think by and large, it's very good. It's just that there is near zero policing of bad driving. So we have the majority who do generally drive well and treat others with respect, then we have a minority who are not interested in doing so, because there are no consequences to them of driving like arseholes.
Spike
Jan 30, 2023, 1:31:30 PM1/30/23
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Spike
Spike
Jan 30, 2023, 1:31:30 PM1/30/23
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Spike
swldx...@gmail.com
Jan 30, 2023, 1:53:55 PM1/30/23
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On Monday, January 30, 2023 at 6:02:21 PM UTC, swldx...@gmail.com wrote:
> Actually I think by and large, it's very good. It's just that there is near zero policing of bad driving. So we have the majority who do generally drive well and treat others with respect, then we have a minority who are not interested in doing so, because there are no consequences to them of driving like arseholes.
These are the best consequences. :-)
> Actually I think by and large, it's very good. It's just that there is near zero policing of bad driving. So we have the majority who do generally drive well and treat others with respect, then we have a minority who are not interested in doing so, because there are no consequences to them of driving like arseholes.
https://burnettwilliams.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/2018_10_18_catastrophic_multi_car_accident_highway_strewn_with_smouldering_ruins_of_cars.jpg
Spike
Jan 30, 2023, 5:13:11 PM1/30/23
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swldx...@gmail.com
Jan 31, 2023, 1:12:57 AM1/31/23
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Good point, and thinking back - from what I can remember - it was probably similar for me. I think I was aware of HC because of different circumstances. I had previously done some cycling course at school (RoSPA?) and I think we'd already met the HC via that. Then my driving instructor happened to be a pedant so I was prompted to dig it out again - although I'm sure I made use of a theory test learning book too.
So yes it's entirely possible that many / most learners never see it (!)
Presumably the DVSA (link is external) book is drawn from stuff in the Highway code? I suppose it's not a given that's updated at the same time as the HC although naively one might expect so...
So yes it's entirely possible that many / most learners never see it (!)
Presumably the DVSA (link is external) book is drawn from stuff in the Highway code? I suppose it's not a given that's updated at the same time as the HC although naively one might expect so...
JNugent
Jan 31, 2023, 7:20:05 AM1/31/23
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On 31/01/2023 06:12 am, swldx...@gmail.com wrote:
> Good point, and thinking back - from what I can remember - it was probably similar for me. I think I was aware of HC because of different circumstances. I had previously done some fairy-cycling course at school (RoSPA?) and I think we'd already met the HC via that. Then my driving instructor happened to be a pedant so I was prompted to dig it out again - although I'm sure I made use of a theory test learning book too.
> Good point, and thinking back - from what I can remember - it was probably similar for me. I think I was aware of HC because of different circumstances. I had previously done some fairy-cycling course at school (RoSPA?) and I think we'd already met the HC via that. Then my driving instructor happened to be a pedant so I was prompted to dig it out again - although I'm sure I made use of a theory test learning book too.
>
> So yes it's entirely possible that many / most learners never see it (!)
>
> Presumably the DVSA (link is external) book is drawn from stuff in the Highway code? I suppose it's not a given that's updated at the same time as the HC although naively one might expect so...
Next week... the first lesson in deciphering Mason Gibberish.
> So yes it's entirely possible that many / most learners never see it (!)
>
> Presumably the DVSA (link is external) book is drawn from stuff in the Highway code? I suppose it's not a given that's updated at the same time as the HC although naively one might expect so...
swldx...@gmail.com
Jan 31, 2023, 7:59:29 AM1/31/23
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More than half (52 percent) of those questioned by the AA had heard about the new rules but not studied them. One in 10 (10 percent) drivers aged 18-54 were completely unaware of the updates, compared with 5 percent of those aged 55 and above.
When asked to identify five correct statements included in the updated Highway Code from a list of 10, the majority of respondents did so correctly.
Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist, said: “For many the updated Highway Code formalises safe and sensible roadcraft, however we are concerned that so many still haven’t read the rules.
“While we are pleased that many of the changes can be successfully recalled, we’d like more drivers to know the rules outright so they can keep themselves and others safe.
“It is in everyone’s interest to take every measure that helps avoid collisions and remove confusion from the road, so we urge those that still haven’t read the updated Code to do so as soon as possible.”
A communications drive was launched by the Department for Transport’s road safety offshoot Think! in mid-February.
When asked to identify five correct statements included in the updated Highway Code from a list of 10, the majority of respondents did so correctly.
Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist, said: “For many the updated Highway Code formalises safe and sensible roadcraft, however we are concerned that so many still haven’t read the rules.
“While we are pleased that many of the changes can be successfully recalled, we’d like more drivers to know the rules outright so they can keep themselves and others safe.
“It is in everyone’s interest to take every measure that helps avoid collisions and remove confusion from the road, so we urge those that still haven’t read the updated Code to do so as soon as possible.”
A communications drive was launched by the Department for Transport’s road safety offshoot Think! in mid-February.
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