Highway Code rule drivers must follow in traffic jams

Highway Code rule drivers must follow in traffic jams

Not that long ago, some changes were made to the Highway Code and there were some important alterations road users need to aware of. And there is one addition that drivers should know of for when they are stuck in traffic jams.

Rule 151 is around slow-moving traffic and, among others, it states that drivers should allow access into and from side roads. The section - introduced in 2022 - say that drivers should allow pedestrians and cyclists to cross in from of them.

This means rule 151 now reads: "In slow-moving traffic, you should:

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  • Reduce the distance between you and the vehicle ahead to maintain traffic flow

  • Never get so close to the vehicle in front that you cannot stop safely

  • Leave enough space to be able to manoeuvre if the vehicle in front breaks down or an emergency vehicle needs to get past

  • Not change lanes to the left to overtake

  • Allow access into and from side roads

  • Allow pedestrians and cyclists to cross in front of you

  • Be aware of cyclists and motorcyclists who may be passing on either side."

When the Highway Code was updated in early 2022, there was also a rule road users needed to be aware of when approaching roundabouts.

The change under the signals and position section advises drivers who has priority in that context. The new section under rule 186 says road users should give priority to cyclists on roundabouts.

Another change on the Highway Code advises drivers on the best technique to open a vehicle's door. Commonly known as the 'Dutch Reach', the technique aims to encourage drivers to look over their shoulder and check for other road users when opening the door.

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Another change to the Highway Code could see drivers being fined £200. Drivers who touch their mobile phone could face six points on their licence on top of the fine from January 2022.

This article was first published in January 2022 and was republished in January 2025.