New hierarchy of road users welcomed by local bike group
A ‘MORE mutually respectful’ approach to road safety is at the heart of the changes to the Highway Code, said the Guernsey Bicycle Group’s representative on the Guernsey Road Users Network.
The group comprises representatives of all road users, from pedestrians to the drivers of heavy goods vehicles.
It has broadly welcomed changes to the hierarchy of road users, which came into effect last Saturday, which put the emphasis on those who can do the greatest harm to have the greatest responsibility to reduce danger or the threat they pose to others.
‘The new hierarchy of road users’ objective is not to prioritise pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders in every situation, but rather to ensure “a more mutually respectful and considerate culture of safe and effective road use that benefits all users”,’ said Phil Le Poidevin from the Guernsey Bicycle Group.
‘This is so important given the challenges with Guernsey’s road network and lack of active travel infrastructure.’
He said the group welcomed the changes that will improve safety on the roads and give people the confidence to walk and cycle as part of everyday life.
‘We know concerns over safety in some of our small lanes and roads stop many of us walking or cycling short journeys,’ said Alex Costen from the Health Improvement Commission.
‘The safer people feel, the more likely they are to walk or cycle and so we welcome the changes to the Highway Code which aim to help protect more-vulnerable road users.’
Dani Bennett from pedestrian safety group Living Streets welcomed any initiative to improve the safety of road users. ‘While much of it may be guidance rather than law, the fact that there has been a revision to the Highway Code shows how the mindset of road users is changing and how collectively people want to make the roads safer for all.
‘People might not be avid readers of the Highway Code, but the fact that it has changed means that it is getting discussed in the media and so is raising awareness.’
Guernsey Velo Club president Alex Margison was pleased that people were refreshing their knowledge of the code, especially elements such as cycling in the primary position, riding two abreast and not having to use cycle lanes, which he said have been in the rules for many years.
‘I’m surprised by the comments that it will cause confusion as much of it is standard common sense and basic courtesy anyway, but I’d urge all those who haven’t yet had the chance to read the new code and do their bit to put safety first on our roads.’
Grun chairwoman Jennifer Merrett said its representatives would be instrumental in notifying members of the new rules.
‘We would urge all road users to familiarise themselves with the new rules and pedestrians not to assume that every other road user will be aware of them. For example, the Green Cross Code is still relevant.’
