The Department for Transport has been forced to talk to CTC to sort out a solution, after the strong campaign against prejudicial wording proposed in a revised Highway Code.
CTC write on their website: How the Changes Happened Working with the Department we have found wording that will remove cyclists' worst fears. We had to battle the well meaning but flawed perspective that comes from local as well as national government that cycle facilities are essentially safety features.
The concept that experienced cyclists regard the road as the safest place to be was counter-intuitive to some officials and Ministers.
The proposed wording now makes it clear beyond all doubt that cyclists are not obliged to use cycle facilities where it would be unsafe to do so. This is highly significant and very welcome.
Rules 61 and 63
The Department for Transport is proposing the following wording:
Rule 61: Cycle Facilities. Use cycle routes, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes and toucan crossings unless at the time it is unsafe to do so. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.
Rule 63: Cycle Lanes. These are marked by a white line (which may be broken) along the carriageway. When using a cycle lane, keep within the lane when practicable. When leaving a cycle lane check before pulling out that it is safe to do so and signal your intention clearly to other road users. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.
