Highway Code change lobby sees over 5,000 write to MPs

Following the delivery of a 27,000 strong petition calling for a change to the Highway Code for the benefit of cycling safety, a further 5,000+ people have emailed their MPs calling for action.

British Cycling’s policy adviser Chris Boardman handed the petition to the UK Government earlier this month, which requested the introduction of a universal rule for road users to give way when turning in order create simpler, safer junctions. Whether you are driving or cycling, you would be clearly obliged to give way when turning left or right, to people who are going straight ahead.

The Highway Code, which has not been fully refreshed for nine years, currently contains at least 14 rules about junctions, often with a different emphasis. This simple rule change would bring the UK in line with countries such as Denmark, the Netherlands and Sweden where walking and cycling is much safer.

“For 5,000 supporters to have already emailed their MP is a really encouraging start,” said Boardman. “It shows that this issue is really important to people and, tellingly, it’s not just cyclists who are supporting this – people who do a lot of walking or driving are also getting involved and leaving really supportive messages.

“I’m really pleased that people can see the benefits that this simple change to the Highway Code could bring to everyone who uses the roads.”

You can support the campaign here.