What’s happened?
Two years after the 2022 changes, there has been little improvement in the safety statistics of our roads. The introduction of the ‘Hierarchy of Road Users’ placed the larger and heavier vehicle drivers under the scrutiny of carrying the most responsibility for others. While many of the companies those drivers work for have admirably implemented additional driving aids in vehicles, they have suffered financial strain trying to meet these requirements, leading to some companies going out of business.
Where seems to be the problem?
The pyramid of responsibility, starting with pedestrians at the top and cascading down to truck drivers, is not inherently problematic. The issue lies in the lack of education and the subjective interpretation of the word ‘safe’, which varies from person to person.
Scenario One
I could drive over 150mph down an empty motorway, and if I arrived unscathed on the other end, then I arrived safely, despite various risks.
Scenario Two
On the other hand, driving in a shared road space with other motorists, adhering to speed limits and interacting with others to ensure safety, requires a different level of attentiveness and responsibility.
It is almost like the examples give two different aspects of ‘safe’.
What is ‘safe’?
If you had a public audience and you asked around the room for the definition of the word ‘safe’ in driving, you would be given multiple responses, illustrating the subjective nature of the term. Safety tends to be a generic well-being concept, but in terms of motoring, it is generally too subjective.
So, is the problem the Highway Code itself?
The Highway Code is a comprehensive manual for road users, but the findings of a survey by the RAC revealed that the majority of the driving population is not adhering to the new rules. The information in the Code may not be received in the correct way by all individuals. It needs a more engaging and varied approach to reach a wider audience.
Whitehall….we have a problem!
The challenge lies in the general public’s reluctance to change behavior when it comes to driving. The government needs to take the lead in delivering the message about how to use the roads effectively, efficiently, and safely. It is crucial for the roads to work efficiently and effectively to keep the country fed and supplied with raw materials for industry.
The message
More widespread driver education is essential, starting at a young age, to foster a culture of sharing space and resources on the roads. The government’s involvement in promoting road safety education is crucial for creating a safer driving environment for all.