Seven in ten Brit drivers are making Highway Code mistake & ‘politeness’ is the issue – do you know the law?

ALMOST seven in 10 drivers make the same mistake when merging in-turn, a study has revealed.

68 per cent of motorists said they immediately move out of a closing lane as soon as they see a ‘merge in-turn’ sign, according to a study by dealer network Dick Lovett.

However, the Highway Code states drivers should wait until the final merging point before switching lanes, despite the fact that 69 per felt it’s rude to do so.

If you do try to stick to the Highway Code guidance, merging can be difficult as roughly one third of the 500 drivers interviewed said they actively try to stop other drivers entering their lane when they do so at the last minute.

Speaking to Auto Express, road safety charity IAM RoadSmart’s policy and standards advisor, Neil Grieg, said: “Sadly, merge in turn remains a source of conflict and stress on British roads rather than part of the solution to unnecessary holdups and congestion.

“The vast majority of drivers never consult the Highway Code once they have passed their test so reminding them what it states on the topic is unlikely to change behaviour.”

He continued: “At IAM RoadSmart, we suggest that highway authorities use the available signs to actively tell traffic what to do and remove any debate. 

“You can’t argue with a sign that says ‘use both lanes’ or ‘merge now’ with a diagram. 

“Nothing is more frustrating than a clear lane alongside a congested one when a bit of advanced driver thinking could get more cars through the roadworks smoothly and quicker.”

This news comes after the AA discovered that more than two in five (42%) of drivers were unaware of the ‘hierarchy of responsibility’ on the roads introduced by the latest Highway Code update, meaning those in control of the vehicles “that can cause the greatest harm in the event of a collision bear the greatest responsibility”.

As of 2022, drivers also should not cut across undertaking cyclists when turning, and should always give way to pedestrians at crossings – even if they are not on the road yet.

This lack of a uniform understanding and response from drivers means that traffic can build up, accidents can happen, and lives can be put at risk.

In light of these findings, Managing Director of AA Accident Assist Tim Rankin said: “While the majority of drivers can recall important updates to the Highway Code, the flagship change that puts more responsibility on those behind the wheel remains unknown by too many drivers.

“Three in 10 drivers admit they haven’t looked at the Highway Code since they passed their test.

“New drivers and those learning to drive will be the ones most aware of the update, but it is long-standing motorists that need to be contacted to ensure they know the rules.

“It’s vital that we keep reminding drivers of these changes, which can make our roads safer and reduces crashes.

“Each year, millions of drivers are contacted with car tax reminders and licence renewals.

“This would be the ideal opportunity to inform everyone of the updated rules and keep the changes at the front of their minds.”

The AA believes that awareness of these changes needs to be repeated for years to come to improve the knowledge of drivers across the UK.