Todays blog, well be covering general advise in a 2 part blog in our series covering the whole of the UK highway code

The rules in The Highway Code do not give you the right of way in any circumstance, but they advise you when you should give way to others. Always give way if it can help to avoid an incident.

The highway code can be bought in shops and online, as well as a free version on the UK goverments website, click here to access the free to use highway code.

And for people wanting a more visual highway code or those who struggle with the technical talk, the Colour Book Academy offer a great new highway code, that allows you to colour in but every rule of the highway code is explained with diagrams and scenario's for each and every rule, this is a great resource for those wanting something abit more fun with learning. Click here to order yours today.

Check out our other blog for road markings and lines.

Rules 144-158 General advice

Rule 144
You MUST NOT

•     drive dangerously
•     drive without due care and attention
•     drive without reasonable consideration for other road users.

Law RTA 1988 sects 2 & 3 as amended by RTA 1991

Rule 145

You MUST NOT drive on or over a pavement, footpath or bridleway except to gain lawful access to property, or in the case of an emergency.

Laws HA 1835 sect 72 & RTA 1988 sect 34

Rule 146

Adapt your driving to the appropriate type and condition of road you are on. In particular

•     do not treat speed limits as a target. It is often not appropriate or safe to drive at the maximum speed limit
•     take the road and traffic conditions into account. Be prepared for unexpected or difficult situations, for example, the road being blocked beyond a blind bend. Be prepared to adjust your speed as a precaution
•     where there are junctions, be prepared for road users emerging
•     in side roads and country lanes look out for unmarked junctions where nobody has priority
•     be prepared to stop at traffic control systems, road works, pedestrian crossings or traffic lights as necessary
•     try to anticipate what pedestrians and cyclists might do. If pedestrians, particularly children, are looking the other way, they may step out into the road without seeing you.

Rule 147

Be considerate. Be careful of and considerate towards all types of road users, especially those requiring extra care (see Rule 204).

•     you MUST NOT throw anything out of a vehicle; for example, food or food packaging, cigarette ends, cans, paper or carrier bags. This can endanger other road users, particularly motorcyclists and cyclists.
•     try to be understanding if other road users cause problems; they may be inexperienced or not know the area well.
•     be patient; remember that anyone can make a mistake.
•     do not allow yourself to become agitated or involved if someone is behaving badly on the road. This will only make the situation worse. Pull over, calm down and, when you feel relaxed, continue your journey.
•     slow down and hold back if a road user pulls out into your path at a junction. Allow them to get clear. Do not over-react by driving too close behind to intimidate them.

Law EPA sect 87

Rule 148

Safe driving and riding needs concentration. Avoid distractions when driving or riding such as

•     loud music (this may mask other sounds)
•     trying to read maps
•     starting or adjusting any music or radio
•     arguing with your passengers or other road users
•     eating and drinking
•     smoking

You MUST NOT smoke in public transport vehicles or in vehicles used for work purposes in certain prescribed circumstances. Separate regulations apply to England, Wales and Scotland. In England and Wales, the driver MUST NOT smoke or allow anyone to smoke in an enclosed private vehicle carrying someone under 18, including motor caravans. In Scotland it is an offence for anyone aged 18 or over to smoke in a private motor vehicle (unless it is parked and being used as living accommodation) when there is someone under 18 in the vehicle and the vehicle is in a public place.

Laws TSf(EV)R, TSfP(W)R, TPSCP(S)R, S-f(PV)R, S-f(W)R & SP(CIMV)(S)A