Highway Code Changes | How to give way to pedestrians safely

With the recent changes to the highway code I've had many comments on my videos about how dangerous it is going to be to give way to pedestrians. In this video I take the Tesla to Formby where I look at a few tips to reduce risk for all road users.
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#highwaycode #tesla #education

[@magfro]

Here in Sweden, pedestrians have had priority for many years now and I only have two issues with it: 1. Many pedestrians now TAKE priority. Meaning they go out in front of cars, busses, semi-trucks, often with the phone to their head and not even looking. Drivers of course need to give them priority, but one mistake here is unfortunately deadly. 2. So many kids have now grown up with the pedestrian priority and thinks that when they sit up on a bike, they got the same priority when crossing on a pedestrian crossings. They don't. Not unless they hop off their bike and walks across. This is unfortunately also deadly.

[@jamesstewart7736]

I’ve been to Sweden. Drivers are very safe and considerate to pedestrians. The rest of the world could learn a lot from Sweden about road safety in my opinion.

[@GodmanchesterGoblin]

"It's part of our job as good drivers to deal with the other idiots." This deserves to be at the heart of any driving safety campaign. It might make a good bumper sticker too. 🙂

[@antonypalmer5804]

My driving instructor told me to think of everyone else on the road as being idiots likely to do the unexpected.

[@thefoxhat6163]

My brother's view is "If people want to be stupid...Let them".

[@gavinminion8515]

@@antonypalmer5804 And that way, when we slip-up and do something idiotic (and we all do). Other drivers will correct things for us and everyone will stay safe and respectful.

[@toggle0d]

Love the explanations for these, however I think what myself and others are most worried about is other drivers on the road. I'm confident that I can adapt my own driving to follow these new rules but other drives wont and unfortunately that's going to cause accidents. For example stopping on roundabouts to let pedestrians cross, I can plan ahead slow in advance but that wont stop another driver either ploughing into the back of me or driving round me and potentially hitting the pedestrian. Hopefully people will change over the coming years but people are going to be injured or worse in the meantime.

[@DarrylKirby]

Yes! thinking of some of the displays of dangerous, arrogant driving I have witnessed over the years, there are going to be problems if the minority cannot change.

[@edj4833]

I would say that's a valid worry, but as I think as you said if you slow gently, before you reach a situation where you are likely to need to give way then you reduce the ramming risk significantly. I'm guessing that's something that you already do in many other situations, for instance turning into a tight side road where you basically have to slow yourself to zero...

[@toggle0d]

@@edj4833 ​ Yeah I 100% agree. Planning well in advance and slowing gently will definitely reduce the risk of these things happening which are things myself and lot of drivers do already. Hopefully more and more people will learn to do the same and the roads can be safer for everyone

[@earthman6700]

I've nearly had a car hit me whilst abiding by the new law. And some irritating little 12 - 14 year old thought it would be smart to just stand in the road looking at oncoming cars, whilst his friends watched him play death games. I'm not sure this new law was properly thought out. Like brexit it is a hash.

[@robertsprigge5535]

"...or driving round me and potentially hitting the pedestrian." Just watching the Dashcam channels showing drivers ignoring red traffic lights is scary. From Ashley's video I'll try not to give pedestrians the idea that I'm saying it's safe to cross.

[@cobybarrett3799]

Test tomorrow wish me luck 🍀

[@ashley_neal]

Good luck 🤞

[@Daye04]

Good luck!

[@hikaru9624]

Best of luck to ya!

[@funkycowie]

If you want people to wish you luck then you have not prepared well enough. Trust yourself and you will succeed.

[@supremeleader9838]

good luck

[@Mark...]

I see this causing a lot of people to get rear ended especially if they stop on their exit of the roundabout to let someone across and the person joining behind them not expecting this and hit their rear. I also see a lot of road rage against the people who follow this rule with people behind them who are ignorant of the changes.

[@simonh6371]

Well it's always been the case that it's the driver who rear-ends the car in front who is liable and whose insurance pays, irrespective of the circumstances. It's a driver's duty of care to ensure that he is at a safe enough distance, and riding at a suitable speed, to be able to stop should anything happen in front of him. When I learned to drive I was taught to anticipate other road users doing unexpected things.

[@RayOLight]

Honestly, I think crossing on a round about is probably the most dangerous place to cross. A lot of round abouts have poor visibility, most vehicles won’t stop to let you cross as well. If a vehicle does stop others might not notice and crash

[@andrewgilbertson5356]

Thank you. I am recommending your channel for people on other vids. Such as Black Belt Barrister because you not only say what the new rules but also show and tell what a good driver should be doing. My wife says my driving has become smoother since I’ve watched your videos.

[@bazzacuda_]

The black belt barrister is a bit of a ****. In fact, not just a bit.

[@jbcentral1545]

@@bazzacuda_ How so? He's very helpful to people because he does a good job of explaining various areas of law. How does that make him annoying in any way?

[@JamesSmith-vz8yr]

@@bazzacuda_ He will Karate chop AND Sue you for saying that..

[@CrazedFandango]

@@bazzacuda_ Agreed. Too many gaps in what he says for my liking.

[@8outof10catzDOOM]

Hate to say it but if your driving as become better after watching a KZbin video then maybe you were passed incorrectly.

[@jamesstewart7736]

This sort of practical demonstration is so valuable. Thank you for your hard work Ashley and sharing your technical expertise. 🙏🏻👏🏻👍🏻

[@kevinhugo]

It's interesting that you've taken "At a junction you should give way to pedestrians..." to include roundabouts. I'd taken it to just mean regular junctions, as there is nothing else in the roundabout section (184-190) to say you should do this. It could be potentially dangerous to give way when there are multiple lanes on an approach to a roundabout as another vehicle could come past and not be seen be the pedestrian. It will also make it very interesting navigating Swindon's magic roundabout!!

[@twerki78]

There are separate rules for junctions and roundabouts in HWC. H2 is only mentioned in regard to junctions covered by rules 170-183.

[@SPTSuperSprinter156]

so the rule is a should, rather than a must, then?

[@kevinhugo]

@@SPTSuperSprinter156 Yes, it's should not must - I don't believe there is any change in the law so you won't be stopped if you don't give way although courts and insurance companies may use the HC to apportion blame/negligence in the event of a collision. My personal interpretation of the changes is that they don't give pedestrians priority, but the motorist should offer it when it is safe to do so.

[@patrickhope2493]

I don’t think this will be a problem at the magic roundabout. There are no paths crossing the roundabouts for pedestrians and there are light controlled crossings on the 4 main exits with the other exit into a quiet residential area just having a standard crossing.

[@jimenojaime7268]

I surprised Ashley has said that as well and for the same reasons as you. I'm also surprised that he makes a difference between situations that have pedestrian 'ramps' for want of a better word (he calls them crossing areas) and those which don't because as far as I'm aware there is no such differentiation in The Code.

[@louischapman1209]

I feel like when people go on one of them driving awareness courses they should just watch all your videos the level of detail and education is the best I have ever seen

[@andrewhouldcroft1116]

So to summarise then basically we all need to just drive a bit more considerately and wherever possible avoid running over pedestrians and knocking cyclists off.

[@GMBasix]

16:45 “are cyclists going to nip round the inside? Yeah. Should they? No…” Absolutely worth spelling out the message that we sometimes have to fix other people’s mistakes for them - watching out for that cyclist for example. But also worth pointing out that it may not always be a mistake. Because if we assume it is, it can lead to misunderstanding. In that instance, for example, you gave way to 2 pedestrians, the latter walking left to right. _If_ the cyclist had filtered to your left, he could* be in a position to pass safely (because he’s not causing the pedestrian to alter course/speed, and the pedestrian had cleared the cyclist’s route through) while you were still allowing the pedestrian to clear your course. He is also balancing his risk of being exposed as a vulnerable road user on the roundabout. Filtering through has inherent risks and additional considerations: how much can the cyclist see of the path ahead (eg a 3rd ped from either side); has the cyclist taken into account space between your left wing and the kerb if you start moving and arc left. * or it could still be unsafe. This isn’t about saying the cyclist is perfectly entitled to filter come what may. But as you explained, he may do anyway; and it is worth considering that he has a different set of circumstances to consider, and we may not be able to assimilate those reasons. That’s why we should try to avoid casting blame as we drive.

[@ianhill4585]

I got marked down as a fault on my Hgv test for not checking the nearside mirror for cycles on pulling forward in traffic, however I'd jammed the wheels up close to the kerb to stop cyclists creeping up the nearside. And just to be a git, I do that now still in the car, can't squash em if they can't undertake you.

[@GarryKnight]

There's one other scenario that no one else seems to have mentioned (except briefly by one person way down in the comments). As a pedestrian, I've waited for a line of cars to pass before crossing, and the last one in the line - with nothing at all behind them - has stopped and waved me across. There was absolutely no need for them to stop as I could have crossed more safely (arguably) once they'd driven past me. So I now stand well back from the crossing point until I see a big enough gap coming up. As a driver, I'll stop for that person waiting if there is traffic behind me, but not if I think they can cross more safely after I've gone.

[@simonavarne9635]

You should now give way to pedestrians waiting to cross at junctions even if there is nothing behind you. Think what might happen if the pedestrian decides to cross just as you get to him and you hit him. You would be at fault as its the law to give way to pedestrians who have started to cross.

[@micheals1992]

@@simonavarne9635 surely if you're entering a junction correctly you'd have enough time to stop if a pedestrian stepped out?

[@simonavarne9635]

@@micheals1992 Is it really worth the risk to gain half a second?

[@colinprice1]

I'm sure many pedestrians will hold back because it's quicker to let one car drive past than waiting to see if the car's slowing down for you. From a pedestrian POV I'd much rather wait a few seconds than stop a HGV.

[@simonavarne9635]

@@colinprice1 The rule change is for drivers not pedestrians. Some pedestrians may wait some might not. In either case the rules now state that drivers should give way

[@JonnyRowntree]

Thanks for this Ashley. I've started implementing the new rules in my driving but its shocking to see how many road users have yet to do so. With the scenario with the 4x4 and you turning left, I would have started making the turn, putting my bonnet into the entrance of the road to show intention but holding back to allow pedestrians to cross.

[@williamfence566]

Recently in a HGV turning left into a residential area ( only way to my drop ) . I stopped on the main road indicating left for a pedestrian to cross the junction I was going down . I noted in my drivers side mirror two cars behind moving out to go around me, I'd assume thinking I was stopping although I was close to the white line to make the turn. The pedestrian had noticed a car making it's way towards the junction from the side road and stopped in the road unsure of what to do. The car continued and therefore blocked my turn believing I was letting him / her out . I sounded my horn to warn the car not to come out and gestured stay there as the vehicles behind were now passing me into what was a potential collision situation. I waited until all had completed their respective manoeuvres and no harm was done. The education needed was in all the car drivers in this example . The pedestrian read the situation throughout and kept themselves safe . I'm no angel just probably more aware of my vehicle size and the damage it could do.

[@CrusherUK2013]

Hi Ashley, Went out for a cycle ride on Sunday morning (7 am !). Not much traffic around, but the ones that passed me and my cycling chum passed at a good distance. One driver was impatient, went the right hand side of a keep left bollard so that he wasn't held up waiting for us to pass it! We cycled 2 abreast (when I could keep up) on the less busy country roads and went single-file when there were vehicles ahead or behind us. BTW I was taught to drive by my father back in 1972-73. He was a driving instructor in the army. He said that you should always give way to pedestrians.

[@SeymourScagnetti]

The Highway Code distinguishes between junctions and roundabouts. In my opinion these new rules do not apply to roundabouts.

[@manu-tonyo9654]

I agree, On approach to a roundabout it is reasonable but not on the exit as the traffic merges into the gap behind at the speed of the flow of traffic on the roundabout, braking at the exit is dangerous. Assuming that suddenly every driver is considerate and patient is unfortunately delusional.

[@shm5547]

I disagree. Roundabout Rule 187 specifically tells drivers to give room to pedestrians crossing the entry & exits of roundabouts. It always has. The reason being the roundabout is considered a separate circular carriageway, distinct from the carriageways that adjoin it. Whenever you turn from one carriageway into another, you must always give way to anyone or anything established in that carriageway.

[@UKMonkey]

The highway code has EXTRA rules in for roundabouts, but also explicitly states that roundabouts are junctions. If you're having to question if a roundabout is a junction then honestly I'm not sure you should be on the road.

[@manu-tonyo9654]

@@UKMonkey The roundabout is a circle of moving traffic with traffic accelerating to merge at different points, if someone brakes at an exit the concertina effect creates multiple hazards around the roundabout for no reason. A roundabout is a Type of junction but they have different rules to a T junction with a stop line.

[@ChrisBrown-px1oy]

Many thanks Ashley, this is superb: a truly leading interpretation of this aspect of the changes. It's not that complicated for drivers to observe whether the road engineers have put in the crossing areas, and take them as cues to give way as we must already treat zebra crossings. Top work, and shame on the government for not taking such ownership.

[@John-gh5nn]

Firstly, may I start Ashley, by saying how much I enjoy watching your channel. As a driver of over forty years, one can never stop learning. I’m sure I can easily adapt to the changes of the Highway Code, it proves that if everyone considers each other on the road it will become a much safer and happier experience in driving. It’s giving us more to think about, which isn’t a bad thing either. In a nut shell everyone needs to slow down, concentrate more and consider other road users.

[@RicardoPetrazzi]

Very Good. @ 10:09 onwards - the lady crossing the road (side road junction) - she still has the good sense to look over her shoulder to check for vehicles turning - and she does so a few steps before she reaches the kerb. That's how it should be done....pedestrians must NEVER assume and step out anyway (even if they do now have priority) - Drivers must must also do better at signalling too so pedestrians know the intention to turn as well. Turn signals are not just for cars behind you!

[@PedroConejo1939]

Spot on. One of the other complaints raised by objectors is that every pedestrian will suddenly feel they can gaily abandon all road sense. Not seen it myself.

[@andrewnorris5415]

Yes, I am hoping the new rules are taken with common sense and it just makes most more aware of peds and their risks. Consider it like a zebra-crossing - you do not just run out into one, you look first and wait for the car to stop or slow right down.

[@davidellis8141]

Excellent comment my thoughts exactly, everyone should first look to their own safety and not rely on others.

[@RicardoPetrazzi]

@@coupsdestylo 😀 gosh I'd almost forgotten all about those Ads from when I was a child....Charlie Says....but seriously, you're right, where was the government sponsored public safety information campaign Ads on TV/KZbin Etc?

[@adrianarmstrong1320]

Clearly we are reading the same page as each other Ashley. Thank you for this video, you deliver your/our message much clearer than I could on camera. This how I’m explaining things to my pupils and the feedback from them is initially very positive. They see, when it’s explained, the real benefit from the Highway Code ‘tweaks’. I’d like to post this on my totaldrive app for all my pupils to watch. Well done in explaining things as always in a sensible rational way 👍

[@onlymeloni]

As ever Ashley, outstanding work and thanks for giving us so much of your time. This very afternoon, I early got rear ended on a left turn but as you say, car is king is ingrained in our culture...or lack of. Also, I am adopting your 'creep' technique in the left turn, so that the oncoming turner realises that I am not giving way to him. For town driving (without horses in the hierarchy ), my mantra is - pedestrian,pedal,metal!

[@DuskHorizon]

I really like your approach of treating driving like a set of problems to be solved. It means as you get better you see & solve more problems. You can even measure it. If you solve problems right people smile. It is a reward in itself.

[@lesliebarrett497]

Thank you Ashly. You gave me a new perspective on subjects which I thought I was already aware of. It will help to make me a safer driver going forward.

[@BDX55]

I’ve been out cycling a few times since the new rules came into force and have definitely noticed a change. I’ve had many more giving way to me and passing with plenty of space or patiently waiting behind me on narrow country lanes until a suitable passing place is reached so I think the message is getting through. I have always slowed and pulled in when I’ve had a car behind me and reached a good passing place, just so it doesn’t put the driver under pressure to ensure they have a good gap on a narrow road. Just because I don’t have to doesn’t mean I won’t. I am being very cautious at junctions. I have had a couple of occasions where I have been on a cycle path and come to a crossing at a junction or roundabout and cars have just gone through and probably not even noticed me even though I have a Hi-Viz jacket and flashing lights. No sense in laying squashed in the road and being in the right!

[@fnkwhite6382]

Bi cyclists read uninsured road users

[@BDX55]

@@fnkwhite6382 There are plenty of car drivers out there uninsured and they can cause a lot more damage than a cyclist.

[@mattsmith4605]

@@fnkwhite6382 yawn! A lot of cyclists will have insurance as a cyclist and as a motorist.

[@fnkwhite6382]

@@mattsmith4605 YAWN facts dont support that claim insurance company, show that less than one in a thousand Bi cyclists have third party public liability insurance , and if they drive a car yes there car will be insured but that does not cover there cycle .

[@fnkwhite6382]

@@BDX55 True lot of uninsured drivers not as many as uninsured Bi cyclists, and car drivers when in an accident do do far more damage in that instance , but Bi cyclists are like locusts they do minor damage to a vehicle or a pedestrian and just ride on , an accident but with no way to identify a rider there is no recourse the police will not record the incident as an RTA.

[@MrStreetboy80]

Great content, Iv been driving for 20+ years car and higher categories but still watch these videos for good advice, you never stop learning to drive when surroundings and rules change.

[@daniellittle7846]

love to top gear reference on the end what a classic

[@umbrellaman08]

You should come to London and do a pedestrian POV when crossing the road. The number of cars/moped delivery literally driving/riding through zebra crossing whilst pedestrians are on the crossing is shocking and even when pedestrians are in the middle of the road crossing, cars literally zoom past without giving way. It’s a weird place in London, where everyone is King of the Road.

[@nadim2769]

I got a takeaway tonight and had to cross the road to get to my car. The traffic was very slow moving but no one let me cross until the traffic stopped. It was raining heavily and I was worried my chips are gonna get soggy!

[@rufusgreenleaf2466]

@@nadim2769 The necessities in life

[@umbrellaman08]

@@nadim2769 Uber drivers are the worst, they're always in their own little world and love parking on bus stops or reversing from a side street onto the main road into fast-moving traffic.

[@nadim2769]

@@umbrellaman08 I know I've been driving for 1.5 year. They always do dodgy maneuvers. I try and keep away

[@webdesignbyjonny]

This was so helpful! allowed me to gain a completed different perception on the new rules. Great as always

[@rogermolineux9741]

As mainly a pedestrian, I have had a mixed response locally, as when standing on a mid road refuge just off a roundabout exit and been given priority. Today, in a similar situation at an entrance to Sainsburys, a van just carried on. It is early days so I am still treating each situation with caution as if before the change of Code. Perhaps Ashley, you could walk around part of your route to notice any change in driver behaviour towards you and other pedestrians.

[@johnkeepin7527]

From a pedestrian perspective, I’m only going to take a risk of crossing in front of something unless it’s possible to communicate with it’s driver visibly. It can work during daylight, but dodgy after dark. Load of us do not wear HV clothing on every occasion on the roads as well.

[@CrazedFandango]

"Should" give way and not "Must". Plus, I wouldn't take my chances on foot with a van driver.

[@sharnehawkins4702]

​@@johnkeepin7527 I came to say this. I always try and make eye contact or read body language of a driver but we can't always see them? Sun glare, poor lighting, and at nighttime all we see is your head lights. The amount of times I've been trying to cross and been waved or flashed only to realise they hadn't clocked me and actually they were waving a driver out of a junction or street.

[@Being_Jeff]

With the scenario where you were turning left and the 4x4 was going to turn right, if there was pedestrians wanting to cross I would stop in such a position that blocked the 4x4 turning into the junction, this way I would also using my vehicle as a shield for said pedestrians.

[@AdrianNelson1507]

A shame that Ash was about 10 seconds too early otherwise it would have been perfect (see rear view)

[@josephmarsh8235]

I thought the same thing

[@R04drunner1]

Good one Jeff, I would do the same (as I posted above). Like your comment about your car being a shield for the pedestrian. I didn't think of that one: that's a great point!

[@tonywoodhouse6988]

The 4x4 didn't stop for those pedestrians that were waiting to cross 10 seconds after Ashley had turned. There was a baby in a pushchair too. Maybe Ashley should have commented on that error.

[@fletchsrv]

@@tonywoodhouse6988 Quite a typical Formby 4 x 4 - don't think you'll ever change their mindset I'm afraid.

[@pjay3028]

Whilst I agree with a lot of what you said I have to say that the new rules have definitely created confusion and grey areas, as you acknowledged, that did not exist in the old rules. This is really a very poor state of affairs. New updated rules should never be a backwards step in regards to safety and these definitely are, although to a much lesser degree than many others would want us to believe. When you have to say that, despite the actual wording (or lack of) in the rules, we should all just use common sense and there won't be any problems, then the rules are poorly drafted. And this is a very important point, because it is those rules that a judge will be using in a court when something goes wrong. Not a common sense approach! These new rules really should not leave a single grey area or any lack of clarity at all. I really can't think of any such example in the old rules, so that says it all.

[@CrazedFandango]

Are you new to Government guidance? :)

[@pjay3028]

@@CrazedFandango no, but I do live in hope!

[@andrewuk8363]

I am just a pedestrian and I found this video educational and informative thank you

[@Will-it6ds]

Thanks for the video ash, this definitely helped clear up a few things for me 👍.

[@pierinovatta1391]

Excellent video. Thank you Neal. I am from a different country and your video has certainly improved my driving experience in the UK.

[@Richard_Barnes]

Very useful - I was already doing most of this, however could have done ‘more of it’ so to speak. However now, the new changes just mean I have to do more of it, so for me it’s no massive change and you’re right Ashley, it’s only people’s impatience and poor driving that will create issues from these changes.

[@rampak1]

The fact that they have made changes already after a few days shows that it was never thought out and evaluated properly.

[@mdcollins1984]

The changes were made between publication of the draft at the end of the consultation period and before their implementation on 29 Jan. All changes were made prior to them being codified in the regulations.

[@rampak1]

@@mdcollins1984 this is not what I heard. The rules on overtaking cyclists described by Ashley in this latest video are different from what was being published on the Government website immediately before the changes came into effect.

[@loganwatkins97]

Thanks for the help Ash you have clearly shown what needs to be done. Also loving the Jeremy Clarkson catchphrase on that bombshell.

[@arden1331]

I learned to drive in 2014 - 2015 and I was told and taught to give way to pedestrians crossing the road at a junction, in reality its never happened because no one wants to cross when a car is turning in.

[@dewi9333]

You're right about how poorly the changes have been communicated. If I didn't watch your videos I would honestly never even know that the highway code had changed

[@TheGrinningSkull]

19:40 My assessment would be to not give way and it would be down to people to find their own way across. As stopping on green lights is more likely to cause more confusion than not. If the intention is to have signalised crossings where cars give way, then it would have to be something akin to what I've seen in Barcelona with flashing yellow lights when you're turning left or right.

[@TranceElbow]

Thanks Ashley. This video has been really useful in clearing up some confusion I had with the new rules. You should be paid by the DfT as an advisor, because their introduction of the changes has been woefully inadequate and yours are much clearer. Thanks.

[@anusiak865]

Hi,today I have passed my practical test on first attempt with one minor 😊 Thank you so much for your videos as they have been very helpful on my driving journey.I will keep watching your videos to be a better driver.

[@ashley_neal]

Great job!

[@iawa2k]

I think the important part really is that the rules for pedestrians crossing at junctions is a ‘should’ rule and not a ‘must’. If I have a clear exit and don’t need to come to a complete stop with cars behind I wouldn’t unless they’ve stepped onto the road already but if I have no one behind or they are a reasonable way behind me or I have no gap to turn immediately I would stop and wait for them to cross.

[@PedroConejo1939]

A lot does depend on the speed of the major road and the vehicles behind. Contrary to what others are saying, I'd be happier coming to a halt if the vehicles were close behind (not tailgating, but that's still doable) than if they were some distance away. My experience in turning off a NSL road into my lane, which is a sharp, blind and consequently very slow turning, is that those some distance behind are the ones whose skids you tend to hear because they're not paying attention, whereas I can shephard the ones closer to me by slowing steadily and indicating early.

[@iawa2k]

@Follow the howl I tend to as it controls the situation, a car speeding up the road to where I am waiting will see me in a car more than it might see a pedestrian crossing or maybe even a car turning into a road in front of me. I can ensure that at least on my side of the road that pedestrian has safe passage, there could be a blind corner before that junction for example where they may think it’s clear but someone comes speeding round just after me. It’s all situational though as is all driving but I like to think it’s just looking out for others.

[@banzanbuddhist1451]

Must admit the main video quality is exceptional. Love the way you have numerous cameras around you whilst driving.

[@BazColne]

That was a lot of time spent on our behalf. A big thanks. I was kind of thinking of 15 yds / ms when you spoke of crossing zones and their proximity to junctions. Like the old 'don't park closer than 15 yds to a junction'.

[@nonopus3125]

Very good Ashley. Thanks for the clarification.

[@memphisjaxx]

Very helpful and informative. Thank you.

[@anglaismoyen]

Passed my test partly thanks to these videos. Cheers, Ashley :)

[@BazColne]

Yay, Johann.

[@andyuk2010]

Excellent video; really informative. Thank you

[@Mysixshooter]

Very well explained Ashley, and yes when out Cycling I definitely have noticed drivers giving me more room when passing, so that’s a massive thank you from me.

[@SemiDTV]

One thing that seems to be going over a lot of impatient motorists heads and this video really sums up well is just how infrequent and of little inconvenience to time these situations actually are! Even when specifically out looking for said scenarios Ashley came across very few and had to resort to explaining what "could" happen in any particular place. Location will obviously vary but for anyone that doesn't spend all day out on the road this is going to be a rare dealing! The mass hysteria would have you believing you're going to have to stop and wait at every entrance and exit and it's just not the case. If drivers looked further then the end of thier noses and maintained a safe following distance it wouldn't be as big of a concern as it seems to be!

[@Robins_fan_Dan]

I agree it just requires drivers to be more vigilant in watching out for other road users, which is never a bad thing

[@TynCan]

Following your advice thank you. You make it clear. I did however see a group of people waiting to cross at a roundabout where a police car, no blues and twos went straight over Doh!!!!

[@wrightwoodwork]

I've just spent a week cycling in Spain. I'm not sure of thier highway codes but people there generally drive more considerate to other road users. I'm sure they manage fine with the hierarchy system. People just simply need to change attitudes

[@bazzacuda_]

Whenever I've cycled on the continent, the only drivers I've found to be ar5eholes have been in UK registered cars. Strange that.

[@davidty2006]

Think europe in general has better drivers than the UK.

[@stretchedits]

Hi Ashley, that's a really well put together informative video, you should be thanked. As a driver of commercial vehicles for 30 years now, Artics and coaches, I think the lack of education for road users prior to these new rules coming into force is shocking. Where are the public information films and so on we used to get. They clearly spelt out all the new changes. Our own industry has said nothing about these changes either, so where is the theoretical advice. Yes, I have read the new rules in the Highway Code, but they do leave alot to your interpretation, especially as there are no diagrams to show various situations. As a driver of large vehicles there are situations which we handle differently to a car driver, like turning into and out of side roads for instance, our road positioning is very different. One example comes immediately to mind. I am heading down a town high street, it's a single lane each side of the road. It's very busy so speed is low, and there is alot of traffic. I have to turn right into a narrow side road to access a car park to make a delivery. Firstly I have to wait for a gap in the traffic approaching me, now I have to wait for all the padestrians to cross, it's a busy high street remember, and that turn has a dropped curb so it's a crossing place. once all the padestrians have crossed my gap in the traffic has disappeared..................You can see this could situation repeating over and over. Anyway sorry for such a long comment..........I think you explained things very well and made even my mind clearer about different situations. All the best Dave.

[@peteryoung4957]

It's great in daylight with pedestrians , night time is a different. with people wearing black and it's a lot harder to see them.. Also has a cyclist the 1.5 metre rule doesn't seem to exist. I've had several close shaves.

[@laceandwhisky]

As a cyclist driver motorcyclist horse rider. I raise question with the 1.5 meter rule when cyclists zoom up on the inside of a vehicle in the gutter sometimes inches away from the vehicle yep had a few scratches on my car from them. I as a cyclist wait or ride at same speed at the traffic as much I can. I see so many ignoring the rules from lights to priorities to not looking or indicating intentions. In all cyclists are the worse road users. Yep I too wear hi Vis. Day n night. Maybe I am just riding the roads getting from A to B and not pacing or racing

[@GMBasix]

I _wouldn’t_ have said the Porsche gave enough space (although I’m watching on a mobile screen). It looked like a typical 6m wide carriageway, but let’s say 7m making a 3.5m lane(*). The Porsche was no more than half way out (left wheel was around midway), at about 1.75m from the kerb. If the width of a cyclist is 75cm on a MTB, and the cyclist is riding a minimum 50cm from the kerb, the cyclist’s right elbow would have been 1.25m out. The Porsche’s left wheel should therefore have been _at least_ nearly at the white line for the duration of the pass (at 30mph… ha!). That’s an example - where oncoming traffic makes it unsafe to pass - where a primary position (or more dominant secondary position) would have benefited the cyclist be obliging the Porsche to ‘build’ his overtake carefully, not treat the cyclist as a blip in his path. (*) if we assume the Jeep behind you is about 1.9m wide and has a total of 1m space around him within his lane, the assumptions above are generous.

[@zangomuncher]

You literally wasted your time typing all of that. Have you got nothing better to do than try and calculate if s Porsche gave enough room. Like seriously it's KZbin comment not even like Reddit in theydidthemath. So sad.

[@GMBasix]

@@zangomuncher You literally wasted your time typing all of that. Have you got nothing better to do than respond to a thoughtful, educated analytical comment on KZbin. Like seriously if it's too much for you to cope with, scroll on by. Like literally an empty head mkay. So sad. Never mind.

[@TheVanderfulLife]

Ashley you should get the glasses that track your eye moments and show on screen, be cool to see where a driving instructor is looking and at what times, how far down the road etc

[@DarrylKirby]

Great breakdown of the changes, and the problems.

[@malccraven5276]

Great video and great explanations. I'm going to bookmark this one to link to people who seem to be a bit hard of understanding about taking care of more vulnerable people. On the scenario with the 4WD, I'm not sure if it would be correct, but i think I would probably try to get far enough into the junction that they are essentially blocked by me and then give way to the pedestrian(s). I'm not 100% certain how that would work out until I see it in real life but that's my current thinking

[@alextw1488]

Excellent video this with lots of detailed and practical examples for road users to learn from. As Ashley is obviously an 'influencer' in this sphere it would be good to see the same type of video reprised on a semi-regular basis. I'm mainly a cyclist as a road user, I can't say I've really noticed a difference in the way people have driven around me recently but I do believe these changes will make a real positive difference over time. The fact they require motorists (and other road users) to exercise greater caution, more observation and slower speeds will I think make roads safer and more pleasant at least once the changes filter through to peoples' consciousness. I liken it to the way motorists seem to become more considerate when traffic lights are temporarily out of order at a busy junction and everyone suddenly becomes more observant and careful.

[@uk53781]

Got any clarification on roundabouts yet? as there is no mention of giving way at roundabouts in the HWC including the roundabouts section. BTW this isnt me trying to get out of giving way at them. Its just that I dont think they have fully clarified it yet. If we do have to give way it should be really clear in the roundabouts section.

[@transport_politics_geek]

Nice one @AshleyNeal. I'd be very interested to see you try this in a more high speed rural environment though (e.g. a national speed limit roundabout with an exit onto a dual carriageway or top of a motorway slip road). I know there is certainly one near me where I would be very conscious of being rear ended if I were to stop at the exit to give way to a pedestrian (especially if they didn't realise the priority order).

[@bradleymaguire7179]

I've not lived in the UK for a few years, soon I'll be moving back. Been seeing others talk about theses rules I was getting confused. But the way you have said this is really good.

[@sara-ji9ew]

I agree 100%. The rules are there to tell you who has priority. Priority being a key word. They decide who goes. So a ped who’s unsure should either give you priority or they wait to check it’s clear before they take it, whilst you are giving them space and time to decide ( rem they have the priority to do this). Anticipating pedestrians at junctions mean slowing earlier looking and planning for stopping gently to control behinds speed. Caring whether you endanger pedestrians is important and has been neglected. Changing driver behaviour is the aim now, slow down early looking ahead/ behind/ to sides gives full awareness of others around and slows your car once your brain registers what’s there.

[@highdownmartin]

Haven’t got to your rant on screens yet Ash, but watching you trying to get the wipers to do what you want highlights what a ridiculous world we now live in. Mobile phone use/ texting/ social media use etc. Banned whilst in charge. Quite right too, but there’s cars coming out where you have select menu, cabin settings, heat/ cold, temp up or down, passenger driver, foot or screen or vent. Menu after menu to do something that I can do in an eighties motor literally by touch and without being distracted. And when you’re older and your eye muscles aren’t as fast ,focussing takes longer to adjust as well. How do these things get type approval and passed by the various governments road safety departments? They’re very stringent on rounded bonnets and softer bumpers and minimum tint on screens but IT overload doesn’t get a look in apparently. Perhaps it should!!

[@davideverett838]

Very helpful. Many thanks.

[@gregthegrey]

Hi Ashley, You have shown many examples of giving way to pedestrians at roundabout junctions, yet these are not a "T" junctions into which or from which you are turning, nor are they a parallel crossing. The Highway code (Rule H2) indeed shows an image of side road "T" junction, not roundabouts, so I am not convinced you are required to stop to give way to pedestrians at roundabouts. This problem is even worse with high speed road roundabouts (roads speed limits greater than 30mph) where some include 2 or more lanes, traffic is not expecting to slow down where there is no vehicular traffic on the roundabout.

[@johnkeepin7527]

I think you’re right about that. There are quite a few towns where there are reasonably fast roads - say 40 mph, with roundabouts, in which they were originally built with NO footpaths at all, no crossings either, with footpaths segregated altogether. However, some of them have had ‘footpath level crossings’ added more recently, sometimes with traffic lights as well, sometimes not.

[@DeeSock]

Oxford english dictionary for roundabout: "place where two or more roads meet (forming a circle that all traffic must go around in the same direction)" Oxford english dictionary for junction: "place where two or more roads (or railway lines) meet" I think the rule would have specified T junction or box junction if it meant those only!

[@TheDriftdog]

So glad you covered the car turning right at 17.31. I was getting ready to ask how do you stop the driver turning right assuming you’re giving way to them & not the pedestrian at your left turn. Since the changes that has always been a worry of mine that I’d give way to the pedestrian but a vehicle turning right might not notice the pedestrian & mows them down 😬 Mind you it’s always been a bug bear of mine when people change the rules of the road to be “courteous” because 9 times out of 10 they’re causing an issue for traffic behind them or worse there’s sod all behind them & I know I can turn if they just continued but now Karen/Ken are getting their knickers in a twist because I didn’t immediately cross their path on their say so with a flash of their lights which incidentally I think I’m the only person driving who knows what a flash of the headlights is actually for lol.

[@DT-hg7te]

I'm glad you asked about the experience of Cyclists since the code changes. I have two perspectives here, both as a cyclist and someone who has driven in Cambridge a few times since the changes came in. With driving in Cambridge, I've always been extra courteous around cyclists as I know too well how it can feel to be on a bike in traffic, but unfortunately I've seen no change with the way people are driving around them in general, which is a shame. Cambridge is the only city in the country where more than half of the population regularly cycles, and you'd think people would be better. I had someone tailgating me, visibly impatiently whilst I was waiting for a safe opportunity to overtake a bike. There's no chance they'd have waited. With cycling, I am seeing more people give me more space. This is very positive, but unfortunately the dangerous passes have not reduced. Those who made the effort before the changes are the ones giving me more space now, the ones who never cared don't care what the new rules may state.

[@cougar02000]

Initially I thought these rule changes might be a problem, now two weeks after the rules going live I haven't noticed any major problems with the rules, one of the reasons for this may be this is how I've always driven a car, give people plenty of time give people plenty of room and give way to pedestrians and cyclists, it makes life easier for everyone including me as the driver.

[@georgecromar4094]

Nice vid. With regard to the 4x4 near the end of the vid, by you pulling forward with your left lock on, you can cover (block the 4x4 access/shield the pedestrians) the junction/pedestrians (had there been any). The only time that this wont work is that in East London/Ilford the locals will use the other lane to drive around you!

[@ekhaat]

It's not only being able to read body language, it's also being able to clearly display body language to others, and that goes for all modes of traffic, on foot or on wheels.

[@jaylondonjay]

I have been pleasantly surprised already by the number of drivers being polite or following these new instructions, probably the later. As a driver, this is empowering to do things I thought were right anyway and dont need to feel "wrong" for doing so. I think quite simple to follow, those who speed, think they have rights etc will have the problems. The only problem as a pedestrian is cant always see the driver with some screen layouts, hey ho, do my normal show intention to cross and see if their speed reduces.

[@yozzer61]

Great informative video. I notice how difficult it can be to find a pedestrian to practice on during lesson. Of course these lessons are in quieter suburb areas compared to major cities. I would love to see a similar video by someone in say London, where, particularly during the summer times, (lots of tourists) how difficult it would be to get across zebra crossing and un controlled junction turns and emerges, when often it is so busy that no sooner as you would give way to pedestrians, others would be at the crossing. I reckon you would be there all day 'giving way'. As for cyclists in London, well, lets keep them in the cycle lanes and prosecute them for red light offences, as we do with motorists!!

[@thelondondashcam]

Very useful video, because I would have got the roundabout scenario wrong, I didn't know that a roundabout was classed as a junction in the new rules.

[@stationcolossus]

You would've thought in the day and age of KZbin, where you can easily find the most popular driving education-related content creators like Ashley, that the people changing these rules would have thought about reaching out to some of them for consultation.

[@sammydemon666]

There was a public consultation. However, you need to know that in matters of legislation and rules, consultations are an insignificant method of judging changes. The public are usually an extremely biased and usually, extremely wrong source of data. That is why you do not really see large public consultations on anything, unless it goes to a vote.

[@mrsmchistory]

Thanks for sharing, Ashley. It certainly has helped in clarifying this new rule. As you said pedestrians will a bit hesitant as you give them way. I've had this a couple of times. I think that any drivers behind you, who are not patient or tolerant of this rule, will become a problem. But hopefully not, only time will tell. My main concern is, and has been since I passed my test last year, is the pedestrians who wander onto the road without proper observations.

[@rawdah786]

Top video Ash 👍🏼

[@chrisnumnuts8671]

I have seen a big change in driving habits and as a cyclist gives me a false sense of security I dont no if its for the better are not I have always ridden my bike expecting close overtakes. a big thank you to drivers that drive safely. remember a lot of riders dont ride the same. also we maybe recoding the rides be safe ride safe drive safe

[@TheGiff7]

Brilliant clip Ashley. A few thoughts. I’ve always held to the adage. “In town slow down”. I’ve found that with this principle I can read and anticipate what’s happening around me and drive accordingly. Over the last two weeks when driving I’ve had no issues in giving way to pedestrians at crossings quite simply because I’ve been looking out for them and have already in my mind a buffer zone in order to protect them. The situation with the 4x4 I would creep forward sufficiently to block the junction, allow the ped to cross and shield them. If I was approaching on my bike I would filter on the offside as I could see the driver committed to a left turn and it would be madness to filter to the nearside if I was turning I would simply join the waiting vehicles. As a cyclist stopping to allow the pedestrian to cross once stopped I would use the slow down hand signal to alert drivers behind. Do they actually teach these hand signals any more? As a cyclist regarding safe passing I think a clearer statement would be to fully use the other lane when safe to do so. Even with a rider in secondary position the overtaking vehicle would need to be pretty much 2/3rds over the white line at the very least. Your final scenario of the junction without a request button I would suggest the priority given would be from the drivers waiting to join the main carriageway as a best practice. This is maybe a skill that instructors could teach new drivers. Finally over the last few weeks I have actually scene a marked improvement in behaviour towards me as a cyclist when overtaking and approaching traffic calming measures. I am though experiencing an increase in drivers sitting less than a car length from my back wheel which is pretty nerve racking. Again thanks for this clip. Your tips and synopsis are definitely more balanced and informative than some of the other stuff out there.

[@TheGiff7]

@Advanced Driving yeah. I probably shouldn’t assume that others would be familiar with this form of signalling.

[@adrianthoroughgood1191]

When I did my driving theory test that included hand signals for drivers, both slowing down and turning left and right, left turn being a circular motion. I think these are for emergency use if your indicator or brake lights are broken.

[@nothereandthereanywhere]

9:00 Spot on! This is the whole purpose of the law I personally do believe myself. Force slow down, make the towns more liveable for people. Love your videos, as always =) (the real "rant" is at 9:15 )

[@leedorney]

Drivers who think they've the god given right to drive like a bloody maniac do my nut in more than anything..I'm just glad you're getting the message out there ! 30mph is bloody fast try it on a cycle

[@Eliddinn]

I've been watching a few youtube channels and a barrister i watch got an interesting point that guide dogs are told not to move until the road is clear so if a blind person is waiting to cross and you stop, no one is going to move.

[@beardyface8492]

As a pedestrian it's a PITA when some motorist you intended to take your time & cross BEHIND decides to give way effectively putting you under pressure to cross sooner or more quickly. Rather than wave them past, I've taken to stopping & turning my back on the junction or crossing point. I absolutely don't trust crossing in front of a motorist who's only holding still using the foot brake, when I could cross behind them with no traffic around at all.

[@RunnerBeanzDad]

Did I hear that right? (1:02 to 1:17). The Department of Transport saying that the changes to the Highway Code are "down to interpretation" and that a lot of interpretations are wrong? How on earth can they think it's OK to change the rules for conduct in hazardous environments but not be definitive in the language used? They have done a very sloppy job, and have acknowledged it in that email. Thank you, Ashley for your excellent efforts in trying to make sense of this. I wish you had been the one writing the rules.

[@grahambonner508]

Thanks for the clarification about roundabouts, that was a very grey area for me, partly due to the lack of clarity and a graphical example in the highway code. Regarding cyclist passing distance, there have been some campaigns on this for some time and in my experience, most drivers give a good distance and I can't honestly say I've seen any change since the new rules came into effect.

[@IanDocherty335]

The DOT haven’t covered themselves in glory regarding these major changes in the Highway Code have they.

[@Mamiya645]

Thank you for this video explaining the changes, I live in Sweden. Over here the other issue with those on foot and bicycle is that nearly every single person no matter age or anything else wears fully and solidly black with high pigmentation of the kind that absorbs light, is too self-important to have reflexes on their person or their bicycle, and absolutely cannot be bothered turning on their lights if their bicycle is equipped in such a way, and believes in full that any driver will be able to see them from far beyond braking distance even if they cross over a 70kph six lane road. Lives are lost and cars are damaged. Then there's the global "I'm on me phone, sod off" jaywalking syndrome...................

[@jessegee179]

Thanks for your calm insight 👍😁 Like many, I drive, cycle and walk. I'd love to see you collaborate with a cyclist and pedestrian as you film, to highlight each others thoughts during a manoeuvre. I was honked by a driver for not crossing when he gave way, but I could see a cat about to run into the road Infront of me. The driver couldn't see it. I indicated thanks, but no thanks, and got two fingers response! I think we have to stop telling each other what to do, and concentrate on our own actions, some people are really bossy! But many are great, I really appreciate that, respect for their skillful handling 👍

[@FAS1948]

I’ve heard people suggest that stopping to allow pedestrians to cross at junctions puts drivers in danger of being hit from behind, but the wording of Rule 126 of the Highway Code has changed little, if at all, since I passed my test more than 50 years ago: ‘Stopping distances. Drive at a speed that will allow you to stop well within the distance you can see to be clear.’ There has always been a danger from drivers who think that safe speeds do not apply to them, and that will not change easily. One benefit of the new rules is that it is to be hoped that they will encourage more drivers to think and act more responsibly than they have previously. My experience this month so far is that, apart from the arrogant hard of thinking minority, most people are driving more carefully, and especially at junctions.

[@kenw394]

Another good video Ashley. By giving actual demonstrations of the rules, it gives a much better explanation of them, than we have had from the people who made them and have caused so much confusion surrounding them . Just one question, a number of the junctions you turned into had a central refuge, would it be OK to treat this as you can a zebra crossing with a central refuge as two separate crossings, provided you could clear before the pedestrian reached it?

[@RazorSharpRust]

While out as a pedestrian I still won’t be crossing until cars are totally clear. I’ve seen cars overtaking the car that is giving way because of impatience and people almost being taken out because of this. Even if you are a highly skilled driver you still can’t control the selfish actions of people behind you that want to pass by at any cost which I see regularly because of the 20 mph speed limits on roads that never should have it.

[@gaz312]

Same. I understand the rules but disagree with them and won’t be following them. The way it’s written give a priority It’s a load of accidents waiting to happen. A pedestrian gets hit because of this the driver will probably be okay but the pedestrian who’s told they have priority over an oncoming car will at least be in hospital. It was safer the way it was. The changes come across as digs at driver at the detriment to others safety.

[@judgedredd49]

You are quite right that the danger can come from behind as people have to stop more immediately as they come across pedestrians and other obstructions now in their way. The problem is Tailgating. Every day I see many instances of vehicles being driven only yards away from the rear of the vehicle in front. a good example is in a 30 mph area vehicles following others and giving only 20 or 30 ft. They also stay that distances behind on any wet road where they should double the actual safe stopping distance. They give the Thinking Distance or just slightly more. That distance is no distance at all when the vehicle in front has to stop more suddenly and unexpectedly. Its not the distance recommended in the highway Code. The safer stopping distance and one that if drivers obey would make them and all of us much safer drivers is one of at least 2 seconds behind or even as little as 75 ft. or about 25 metres. That's the distance recommended in the Highway Code and if simply applied and adhered to they would make our roads the safest in the world and save the NHS billions in emergecy and after care.. However the DVSA tell us not to be closer than the full stopping distances a all times but it then does say that in certain traffic situations one can be the Thinking Distance only otherwise at 30 mph one should be 30 meters behind. That's actually some 98 ft in all which is a really good distance to see and stop in in any emergency. The traffic conditions it talks about where one can be closer and I can only assume this, would be in heavy congested traffic with just stop start traffic in queues. Even in these circs. it would be easy to follow say a bus or lorry or any other vehicle for that matter and still give plenty more room such as the full stopping distances and that would be a lot safer still. Otherwise than always that stay the safer full stopping distances and then an awful lot of collisions. accidents,call them what you like, involving injuries would be massively reduced.

[@archangel6415]

Look forward to hearing the final verdict on the last junction, it is in need of clarification. How the average pedestrian will understand what to do is another matter but the driver must know.

[@adg2396]

One of the clearest demonstrations so far, thanks. I'm still telling my kid to wait until there's a clear gap before crossing. It's all well and good the lead car giving way, but what about the one behind, or the motorcycle/cyclist flying past him that doesn't? If pedestrian safety is the aim of these changes I'm not sure that will be achieved.

[@ibs5080]

I have to say, there has been an explosion of very interesting comments and debate on this channel recently, as a result of the HC changes & the topics Ash has chosen to video. That's not to say comments weren't interesting prior to that (!) but I find everyone's thoughts and experiences quite fascinating reading of late.

[@josephmarsh8235]

The way you said everyone is like car bassed is so common. This is something though that some countries do have in law though like I found out when I went on holiday to America you can get fined for just crossing the road wrong. I only just found out from my family because I was a teenager. But still, in the UK it's different

[@robertsprigge5535]

It's funny when Americans ask if 'Jay walking' is illegal in the UK.

[@richH1625]

Cycling. I was out around town and the Cheshire lanes the weekend of the new rules. Car drivers definitely felt more generous than previously.

[@MiseEnZheng]

This is absolutely brilliant. I can't lie, I was confused at first read of the new rules. Much of the changes only feel like rewording something that should already be part of a sensible driver's philosophy. I.e. hazard perception would say a pedestrian at a junction, might step out... so you SHOULD be ready to give way to them, should they do that... the word SHOULD is still there which is what means this isn't the chaos the media is making it out to be. A good driver will know in a given situation if they can safely give priority to a pedestrian. If they can't, that's not in breach of the highway code. I think the rule is just trying to calm folk into approaching junctions safely. That's it.

[@aquanick2001]

Being ready to give way to a pedestrian as you have spotted a hazzard is very different to stopping and allowing them to cross, if they don’t look like they are stepping about and they have looked at you, then keep going.

[@MiseEnZheng]

@@aquanick2001 Yep, nothing I said above contradicts that.

[@grahamtowler1761]

Impatience and speed the cause of most danger on roads not just for pedestrians

[@kenbrown2808]

a point that bears mentioning. where I live, it is customary to give a pedestrian an acknowledgement when giving priority. this is typically just a nod when you make eye contact. this lets them know that you see them and are not just looking through them. I think it also goes towards encouraging a cooperative mindset instead of a competitive one.