The Highway Code is a crucial element of learning to drive in the UK. It is a set of rules and guidelines that all drivers and riders must follow to promote safe and responsible driving on the roads. Every year thousands of motorists are involved in fatal and non-fatal accidents on the roads; more often than not, due to failing to observe the rules of the highway code. You could be forgiven if you’re a learner driver unless you forget to take out a learner driver insurance and not place L plates at the front and back of your car.

What is the Highway Code?

The Highway Code is a set of rules and guidelines that all drivers and riders must follow in the UK. It covers a wide range of topics, including road signs, road markings, traffic lights, speed limits, and guidance on safe and responsible driving practices. The Highway Code is updated regularly to reflect changes in road layouts, traffic patterns, and new technologies, and it is the responsibility of all drivers and riders to keep up to date with the latest version.

Most common road accidents

According to publicly available data the leading causes of road accidents are failing to look and failing to judge another driver/rider’s speed. It is therefore likely that in many cases road accidents happen near junctions or turnings such as roundabouts or bends due to negligence and lack of awareness. This is why, from a legal point of view, drivers who fail to give way at a junction or roundabout would be deemed liable for damages in the event of a serious accident.

Revisiting the Highway Code

revisiting the Highway Code can seem boring, as there is a lot of information to absorb. However, there are a few tips that you can follow below to help you on the roads:

• Avoid waving or flashing at other drivers when near a junction (and other settings) as you could be found liable for damages in the event of an accident for confusing other motorists.
• Use visual aids to help you remember information. The Highway Code includes a lot of road signs and markings, so using flashcards or other visual aids can be a useful way to remember them.
• In the event of an accident, ensure you follow the correct process by exchanging details with the other driver(s) and report to the police.
• Take regular breaks to avoid burnout. Revisiting the Highway Code can be mentally taxing, so it’s important to take regular breaks to avoid burnout and stay focused.

Conclusion

The Highway Code is a vital component of learning to drive in the UK. It provides the foundation for both the theory and practical components of learning to drive, and it is therefore essential for learners to study it thoroughly. By following these tips and using a range of study materials, learners can gain a thorough understanding.