Whilst many are calling the updated highway code (implemented on 29th January 2022) a ‘recipe for disaster’, many are wondering what the public’s general opinion is on the new rules?
Interested in finding out, Claims.co.uk performed a reaction analysis on 100 of the top performing UK news articles between January 8th and February 8th 2022 to reveal the average positive and negative receptions to the new rules.
THE RESULTS
| Average % of negative reactions | Highest negative reaction (emoji)* | Average % of positive reactions | Highest positive reaction (emoji)* |
| 42.1% | 91% (😡 – angry) | 14.5% | 65% (❤️️ – love) |
*Highest positive/negative reaction refers to the single article with the most positive/negative emoji reactions
| . Most of the British public dislike the new rules – 42.1% of reactions to articles on the highway code were negative, compared to just 14.5% that were positive . The most hated highway code article on Facebook is from Visor Down, with 88% reacting with an angry face . 65% reacted with the love emoji to articles from Full Fact and Liverpool Echo, making them the most positively received on social media |
For those wanting to stay safe on the road and keep updated on the new rules, George Patton at Claims.co.uk provides his top tips:
“The highway code’s purpose is to keep pedestrians and road users safe. Yet, ironically when new rules are implemented, it can create more danger until everyone becomes accustomed to the changes. Here are a few things you can do to keep safe on the road:
1. Practice safe habits – always ensure seat belts are worn, distractions are kept to a minimum and that you remain focused. These fundamentals are especially important when adjusting to new road measures.
2. Keep a copy of the highway code close – the hundreds of rules included can be hard to follow. Whilst you may not be able to refer to it when making a driving decision, keeping a copy in your car will allow you to refresh your memory whenever safe.
3. Pay special attention to cyclists and pedestrians – whether you agree with the changes or not, the updated highway code is still pertinent to non-driving road users. Potential dangers can be worse for these people, so ensure to take extra care around them.
4. If you can’t ensure it’s safe, don’t do it – there’s always a safety risk with driving. If you’re not confident that your next manoeuvre will be safe, wait until you know it is safe to do so.
5. Be patient with other road users – you may have already implemented the new rules, but everyone learns at different rates. Be patient and keep aware of potential hazards whilst driving so you can react as necessary.”
Help keep news FREE for our readers
Supporting your local community newspaper/online news outlet is crucial now more than ever. If you believe in independent journalism, then consider making a valuable contribution by making a one-time or monthly donation. We operate in rural areas where providing unbiased news can be challenging. Read More About Supporting The West Wales Chronicle
