At last......

Well, I'm happy. At last this sensible idea has been added to the highway code.
I believe it was in the draft for the last version, but dropped for the final thing.

This was always implied anyway, but now it's more clearly written.

"For the first time, the Highway Code has a rule on “merging in turn”
under the section on lane discipline (Rule 134; Highway Code 2007)."

ie not queuing in one lane when 2 are available !!

Unfortunately, all those idiots that try and stop you using all the lanes because "you're pushing in" wont read the new version - but at least it's easier to show we're right now.

(NB I don't agree with the idiots that actually do belt down the empty lane in order to push in, it's only the sensible careful drivers using all lanes properly that I agree with)

Here is the release I was emailed - reproduced entirely without permission, but hey, it's a News Release, not a big secret :-)

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Enclosed below is the latest News Release from the IAM.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

NEW HIGHWAY CODE COULD HELP CUT CONGESTION SAY ADVANCE MOTORISTS

Issued 28th September 2007

Roadworks misery and the congestion that goes with them could be
radically reduced, according to the IAM (Institute of Advanced
Motorists), if UK motorists take on board new advice in the Highway Code
published today (28 September 2007).

For the first time, the Highway Code has a rule on “merging in turn”
under the section on lane discipline (Rule 134; Highway Code 2007).

“We are pleased to see this as we believe it will ease many pinchpoints
at roadworks,” said IAM Chief Examiner Peter Rodger.

“Too often we see a long, empty lane leading up to roadworks, doing
nothing, because drivers have been told to get in lane too early. Then
there is a tension with people perceived as ‘pushing in’. The new
recommendation to merge in turn in the Highway Code will encourage
drivers to use all the available lanes – right up to the lane closure -
and could make roadworks less of a problem,” he said.

“It will avoid frustration and mean everybody gets through the
restriction that much quicker.”

Mr Rodger, a former Metropolitan Police driving instructor, said that
the IAM had long campaigned for merge in turn recognition in the Highway
Code.

“We are convinced everybody will get through sooner if they merge in
turn. If drivers try it, encouraged by the Highway Code, it could be the
end to the ‘I’m first, you’re next’ attitude that slows everybody down.

“We now need to see this initiative supported by physical ‘merge in
turn’ roadside signs as well, because we know many drivers don’t bother
with the Highway Code once they have passed their test.”

A survey in 2006 supported by the IAM found that in a test, only 29 out
of 1000 motorists recognised all of the ten Highway Code signs they were
shown.**

The Highway Code is a best selling title in the UK. The new edition -
last revised eight years ago - now describes smoking as a distraction
for drivers, an increasing problem following the UK wide indoor smoking ban.

"If you are on a long journey, then it makes sense to combine your rest
break away from driving with a smoking break. While it is not as big a
distraction as a hand held mobile phone, it is not worth the risk. Just
think of the consequences of a cigarette dropping into your lap while
you are driving," added Mr Rodger.


**June 2006; New Car Net/Institute of Advanced Motorists

ENDS


Kerry Bonner
Public Affairs Assistant
Web:www.iam.org.uk

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