The Highway Code was created to give all road users, whether they are pedestrians or drivers, a full understanding of their responsibility when using the road. It was created to help keep accidents to a minimum and make sure drivers and pedestrians know what to do when using the road.
When courts are reviewing compensation claims, or deciding who is liable for an accident, they often refer to the Highway Code when justifying their decision to those involved. Throughout the years it has grown to be a part of road traffic accidents in English law.
Before any driver is allowed to sit their driving test, it’s a legal obligation a theory test must first be passed. Here is where we show our knowledge of what is, and what is not, acceptable on the road. Some of the questions in this test are taken from the Highway Code.
The first part of the Highway Code gives a general guide for pedestrians, which says:
- Pavements should be used if provided…
- If there is no pavement, keep to the right hand side of the road so that you can see oncoming traffic…
- Wear or carry something light-coloured, bright or fluorescent in poor daylight conditions. When it is dark, use reflective materials…
Along with the guides for pedestrians, it also gives guides for motorists, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
If you do become involved in a road traffic accident, the Highway Code may play a huge part in showing evidence to which party involved is ultimately responsible.
The need for drivers and pedestrians to show one another a duty of care originated in early English law over a hundred years ago… Although back then it was horse carriages and pedestrians.
The general rule of road users showing one another a duty of care has been followed-up through history.
If you have any queries about a potential claim of any kind, call our claims team free from a landline or mobile on 0800 634 7575. We will talk you through your claim and, if accepted, make sure that you receive the most compensation possible to give you peace of mind and help ease any financial worries you might have suffered as a result of your injury.
