Changes to the Highway Code come into force this week, with an increased focus on cyclist and horse rider safety

The Highway Code is about to be updated, and the changes will become law across the UK on January 29, pending parliamentary approval.

However, it seems the vast majority of drivers are unaware of the changes.

Among the modifications to the code is the creation of a hierarchy of road users, which seeks to protect those most at risk of collisions, for example cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders.

Given that this part of the world is popular with cyclists and riders, the changes are not only good news for them, but also a reason why we had all best get up to speed with the new Code.

In the new rules, cyclists are given clear priority over cars, which must leave at least 1.5 metres room when passing bicycles, and bikes must remain at least 50cm from the pavement.

In slow moving traffic, bikes must now ride in the centre of the road rather than to the left, and guidance also suggests that cyclists could ride two abreast to further protect themselves.

Cyclists are also now given priority at roundabouts.

Other important changes to the law include drivers turning into a road are now required to give way to pedestrians crossing the road, or waiting to cross. Previously, drivers had right of way.

Drivers are being asked to use 'The Dutch Reach' technique to reduce the risk of opening a car door into the path of a cyclist.

This involves using the hand on the opposite side to the door, as that will lead to people looking over their shoulder into the road behind them.

A further change is making it illegal to cut across cyclists or horses when turning into or out of a junction.

The government has been criticised for not publicising the changes sufficiently. A survey by the AA found that a third of motorists said they did not know the Highway Code was being updated.