The New Roundabout Law Being Introduced in the UK

Motorists in the UK should be aware of a new Highway Code law coming into effect on January 29 2022 that could seriously impact them going forward.

The rule will be implemented with roundabouts and road safety in mind for cyclists who move more slowly and are less protected on the roads.

It will cause a change of hierarchy when it comes to priority at roundabouts with cyclists being given the right of way regardless of which direction they are coming from or want to go in.

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As everyone should know, the law currently gives way to the right, meaning that if you approach a roundabout and a vehicle coming from the right is making a move, they have priority over you.

The legislation should be easy to follow and if anything, just gives that added protection on UK roads to the most vulnerable, thus preventing fatal incidents from occurring.

"You should give priority to cyclists on the roundabout. They will be travelling more slowly than motorised traffic", says Rule 186.

"Give them plenty of room and do not attempt to overtake them within their lane. Allow them to move across your path as they travel around the roundabout.

"Cyclists, horse riders, and horse-drawn vehicles may stay in the left-hand lane when they intend to continue across or around the roundabout and should signal right to show you they are not leaving the roundabout.

"Drivers should take extra care when entering a roundabout to ensure that they do not cut across cyclists, horse riders or horse-drawn vehicles in the left-hand lane, who are continuing around the roundabout."

There could be an argument that these rules haven't been widely distributed, so many, particularly those that don't have access to social media or read the news might miss it.

Only one-third of drivers know about this rule change, according to the AA and there has been criticism that this should have been publicised better.

"Many people won't have read the Highway Code for years so it's essential that the key changes are clearly explained, with simple, accurate, and memorable messages", Duncan Dollimore, from Cycling UK, told The Mirror.

"The proposed upcoming changes to the Highway Code will improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians, and horse riders and were announced to national press.

"The department has established a working group of key organisations to ensure that messages about the changes are as widespread as possible and our well-established Think! campaign will continue to ensure all road users are aware both when these changes come into effect and beyond", said a spokesperson for the Department for Transport.

It's something that perhaps should have been brought in several years ago, and many probably do subconsciously already follow this rule to keep others safe, so it makes sense.

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If you are not up to date with the Highway Code, though, you should seriously consider brushing up on it to ensure you are following the correct rules and not endangering yourself or other road users.

Failing to adhere to the Highway Code could result in fines, points on your license, or in more severe cases, a trip to court or criminal record.