The biggest questions surround the new ‘Hierarchy of Road Users’ (more details here), and when theory test will officially include the new questions.
Conflicting views
However, controversy still rages over the new hierarchical approach itself with 59% of UK motorists saying the changes will lead to more conflict, according to a new IAM RoadSmart survey.
Experts believe though the underlining issue is road users failing to understand the new rules in the first place.
“The hierarchy offers clarity as to where priority should be given in various scenarios, so it is important for all road users to understand how the changes will affect them and others in real situations on the road,” says Neil Greig, Director of Policy and Research at IAM RoadSmart.
Rolling out the rules
To help with this understanding, the Department for Transport is planning an information campaign while the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has just introduced the new print version of the Highway Code, which is available to buy here. The digital version can also be read here.
Just as important are the questions being asked by driving instructors about the new code. Thankfully, the National Associations Strategic Partnership (NASP), which represents the interests of approved driving instructors, has received answers from DVSA. Here are the top three:
1. What are the rules about giving priority to pedestrians at junctions and roundabouts?
ADIs have questioned the rules about giving priority to pedestrians who are waiting or intending to cross at a junction – in particular at junctions controlled by traffic lights as well as the rules surrounding roundabouts.
The DVSA says: “At junctions with signals and signs, road users should obey these. For example, we would not expect pedestrians to cross when a red man is showing at a pelican crossing."
As for roundabouts, the DVSA says individual circumstances will determine if it is safe to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross: “Drivers and riders are expected to exert their own judgment to ensure the safety of themselves and other road users.”
The agency lists several factors to help you make the right call. These include the presence of following traffic; the speed on approach; the visibility and actions of the person waiting to cross; and whether it was clear the person intended to cross.
2. Will people be marked on the test for not using the Dutch Reach system of opening the door?
Wondering what the Dutch Reach is? Here’s our rundown of the technique. In the meantime, the DVSA says that pupils will not be marked.
Instead, the most important thing is drivers ensure they open their door safely when opening up out on to the road (or the pavement for that matter).
3. When will the theory test questions be changed to reflect the changes?
The DVSA says that it “makes sure theory tests remain correct when changes come into effect. However, it would be unfair to test people on such changes immediately as they might not have learned them in time, so there is a bedding in period.”
That means while the changes are included in learning resources (including Theory Test Pro), you will be given a ‘fair chance’ to answer questions on them during your revision period before they appear in live tests.
“New questions are trialled with learners before appearing in live tests to make sure tests are fair. The time this takes depends on the success of new questions to work well, and how long it takes to achieve a statistically significant sample.”
• Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
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It’s unsurprising that there remain so many questions about the new Code. After all, it represents a huge shift in driver responsibility.
If you do have any queries or uncertainties, do raise them with your instructor. They’re there to help.
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Roundabout photo by Ádám Berkecz on Unsplash