British Cycling has launched a petition for a change to the Highway Code that will protect walkers, cyclists and drivers.
The National governing body – joined by Chris Boardman and The AA – wants people to sign a petition asking that a universal rule be put in place that means all road users give way when turning left.
The rule change would give pedestrians greater safety, as well as reinforcing existing infrastructure such as Advance Stop Lines and advisory cycle lanes which place cyclists on the inside of turning traffic.
Currently, there is no clear rule that applies to cyclists, and drivers only have to give way to a pedestrian already crossing. With two thirds of all accidents happening at or around junctions, British Cycling (BC) the AA and Boardman all believe it’s time for change.
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The Highway Code has not been fully refreshed for nine years and proposals have been made following in-depth research carried out on behalf of BC. The research suggested that the rule change could increase junction efficiency by 15 to 40 per cent, as well as improving safety.
The proposed rule change asks for:
- Drivers turning at a junction giving way to people cycling and walking who may be on your nearside, or crossing the road you wish to turn into.
- Cyclists turning at a junction giving way to people walking who are crossing the road you wish to turn into.
- Pedestrians getting increased protection when crossing a side road or other junction.
The petition went live yesterday, and already had well over 6,000 signatures at time of writing – over half the 10,000 being sought.
