The Department for Transport published an updated edition of the Highway Code in October 2026, building on the 2022 hierarchy-of-road-users amendments. The latest revision introduces two new rules and amends several existing ones affecting cyclists, motorcyclists, and drivers at junctions.
Cyclists at side-road junctions (new Rule 186A). When a cyclist is travelling straight ahead at a junction, vehicles turning into or out of a side road must give way to the cyclist. Previously the rule stated cyclists should be given "enough space" — the new rule establishes explicit priority, bringing England and Wales into line with the Netherlands' Duurzaam Veilig standard for cycling infrastructure.
Safe passing distances (amended Rule 163). Drivers must leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking a cyclist at speeds up to 30mph, and more space at higher speeds. The 1.5-metre rule was previously advisory guidance; the amended rule makes clear it applies in all circumstances and that a driver who passes closer without exceptional reason is breaching the Highway Code.
Legal significance. The Highway Code does not itself create criminal offences, but failure to comply is admissible evidence in both criminal and civil proceedings. In a civil personal injury claim, a driver who passed a cyclist at less than 1.5 metres and caused injury faces strong evidence of negligence. The Road Traffic Act 1988, s.38(7) provides that non-compliance with the Highway Code may be relied on in any civil or criminal proceedings. Claims by cyclists injured on the road are subject to a three-year limitation period under the Limitation Act 1980, s.11. The Motor Insurers' Bureau handles claims against uninsured or untraced drivers. The updated Highway Code is published free on GOV.UK.