Question of the week: What are driver's rights regarding cyclists?

Dear Honest John,

"What are driver's rights regarding cyclists? It seems very one-sided now and almost impossible to comply with their rights."

- KG

Dear KG,

It is important to clarify that no road user has 'rights' when it comes to the Highway Code. The road is a shared space and road users of all categories have a responsibility to show care and consideration for others, particularly towards those who are more vulnerable.

In 2022 the Highway Code was updated to include the 'hierarchy of road users', which places the most vulnerable at the top of the hierarchy. It also outlines that this does not remove the need for everyone to behave responsibly.

The updated rules include guidance for drivers and their responsibility towards cyclists, pedestrians and horses, but also cyclist's responsibilities towards pedestrians.

Rule 212 and 213 of the Highway Code outline the responsibilities of drivers towards more vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists, cyclists, horse riders, horse drawn vehicles and pedestrians using the road - 'Give...at least as much room as you would when overtaking a car (see Rules 162 to 167).Drivers should take extra care and give more space when overtaking motorcyclists, cyclists, horse riders, horse drawn vehicles and pedestrians in bad weather (including high winds) and at night.'

When driving you may experience other road users behaving in a way that is not in accordance with the rules, but that is their decision to do so and does not absolve you from your responsibilities. While these situations can be frustrating, it is important to remain calm and be aware of the damage that can be caused by a vehicle travelling at speed.

Ask HJ

Can you overtake cyclists on double white lines?

A short way from my home is a hill approximately 2 miles in length. There are double white lines in the centre of the road. There are lots of cyclists on the road, mostly in groups and commonly at weekends. Given that I need to keep 2 metres away from cyclists, technically, I cannot overtake them because of the double white lines. As one would expect, obeying the law, long queues grow. Some people do overtake cyclists and cross the double white lines. So, if the road ahead is clear and I were to be caught crossing the white lines by a policeman, would they book me or hopefully use some common sense and not bother.
Rule 129 of the Highway Code states the following: Double white lines where the line nearer to you is solid. This means you MUST NOT cross or straddle it unless it is safe and you need to enter adjoining premises or a side road. You may cross the line if necessary, provided the road is clear, to pass a stationary vehicle, or overtake a pedal cycle, horse or road maintenance vehicle, if they are travelling at 10 mph (16 km/h) or less. The speed of the cyclists is the key point here, so if they are travelling at 10mph or less you would be allowed to overtake safely.
Answered by David Ross
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