Other Road Users
August 2023
Anyone driving for work, and the company which employs them, has a responsibility to ensure that their vehicle moves safely around other road users, and in particular vulnerable road users.
Recent changes to the Highway Code created a hierarchy of road users which means those who can do most harm – usually the largest vehicles – have the greatest responsibility for road safety. Conversely, those who are most vulnerable need to be treated with the greatest caution. Pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders make up more than half of those killed on our roads with 39% of pedestrian fatalities involving an at-work driver.
Drivers must act with caution, ensure appropriate speeds and passing distances, and prioritise the safety of those around them.
What Fleet Managers can do:
- Read our legal update on the changes to the Highway Code – safety responsibility is on those whose vehicles can do the most harm so ensure your drivers take particular care when moving around those who are more vulnerable than they are.
- Ensure you share the two second rule with your drivers so they always have time to respond to the unexpected – and give vulnerable road users a very wide berth when overtaking.
- Pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to vehicles turning left. Your driver should not assume that other road users understand their sight lines, so always check left before pulling away.
More Other Road Users Resources
In the news – Safe Loading
Highway Code : Road users requiring extra care (204 – 225)
Sections 204 to 225 of the Highway Code covers road users requiring extra care.
ROSPA: Advice for drivers on how to avoid collisions with vulnerable road users
Everyone has the right to travel on the road safely, whether by car, motorcycle, pedal cycle, horse or on foot. This informational PDF from RoSPA offers advice on how drivers can help other road users user the roads safely.
Road Safety Week: Fleets urged to ensure drivers aware of Highway Code changes
Drivers of company cars, vans and trucks are being urged of the importance of understanding changes to the Highway Code as National Road Safety Week starts with the theme of Safe Roads for All.