The Highway Code: Rules Worth Knowing
Think you know the rules of the road? Discover seven everyday situations that catch motorists out, explore the correct guidance and try a quick knowledge check.
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Seven rules you might not expect
Tap the arrow on any card for an easy-to-read explanation. Each includes an official rule reference, so you can check the wording for yourself.
Pedestrians at junctions
The person waiting to cross may have priority.
Read more about Pedestrians at junctions
When turning into or out of a road, you should give way to people crossing or waiting to cross. If someone has already started crossing, give way. Do not assume they have seen your vehicle.
Highway Code / legal reference: Rules H2, 8 and 170
Check official guidance ↗Cyclists riding side by side
Two abreast can be safer in some situations.
Read more about Cyclists riding side by side
Cyclists can ride two abreast. This may be safer in a larger group or when accompanying less experienced riders. Drivers should be patient and only overtake when they can leave sufficient space. Cyclists should be considerate and help others overtake when safe.
Highway Code / legal reference: Rule 66; Rule 163
Check official guidance ↗Puddles and pedestrians
Slow down when water could splash someone.
Read more about Puddles and pedestrians
Driving through standing water without reasonable consideration for people nearby could amount to careless or inconsiderate driving, depending on the circumstances. Reduce your speed and avoid spraying pedestrians; there is no automatic fixed penalty simply because a splash occurs.
Highway Code / legal reference: Rule 144; Road Traffic Act 1988, section 3
Check official guidance ↗Phones at traffic lights
A red light does not make handheld use OK.
Read more about Phones at traffic lights
The ban on using a hand-held mobile phone while driving also applies when stationary in traffic. Narrow exceptions include a genuine emergency call when stopping is unsafe or impractical, and certain stationary contactless payments. Hands-free use can still distract you.
Highway Code / legal reference: Rule 149
Check official guidance ↗Parking at night
The direction of your parked vehicle matters.
Read more about Parking at night
On a road at night, you must not park facing against the traffic flow unless in a recognised parking space. Separate rules apply to parking lights, depending on the road, vehicle and circumstances.
Highway Code / legal reference: Rules 248–250
Check official guidance ↗When to use your horn
A horn is a warning, not a complaint.
Read more about When to use your horn
Use a horn only to warn others of your presence while moving. You must not sound it while stationary on the road or in a built-up area between 11:30pm and 7am, except when another road user poses a danger.
Highway Code / legal reference: Rule 112
Check official guidance ↗Guide dogs and white canes
Some people cannot see or hear your approach.
Read more about Guide dogs and white canes
Take extra care around blind or partially sighted pedestrians, who may use a white cane or guide dog. Deafblind people may use a red-banded cane. Slow down, give people time and follow the normal crossing and junction rules—a guide dog does not create a separate blanket priority rule.
Highway Code / legal reference: Rules 204–207 and H2
Check official guidance ↗Quick check: what would you do?
Test your knowledge with three everyday situations. Open each question to reveal the answer.
You are turning left and somebody is waiting to cross the side road. What should you do?
Give way to them, provided you can do so safely. Rules H2 and 170 say drivers should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross the road into which or from which they are turning.
Can you use a hand-held phone while stopped at red lights?
No. The restriction applies while stationary in traffic, subject to limited legal exceptions (Rule 149).
Is it always illegal for two cyclists to ride abreast?
No. Rule 66 recognises that cycling two abreast may be safer in certain circumstances.
What does “MUST” mean in the Highway Code?
Rules containing MUST or MUST NOT identify legal requirements. Other rules use words such as should or do not to give important safety advice. Not following non-mandatory advice can still be relevant when responsibility for a collision is assessed.
The GOV.UK Highway Code applies to England, Scotland and Wales. Northern Ireland has a separate Highway Code, so check the guidance that applies where you are driving.
Read the official Highway Code ↗This page provides general educational guidance, not legal advice. It summarises selected rules and is not a substitute for the full Highway Code, legislation or professional advice. Rules and circumstances can change; check official sources before relying on specific requirements. Motor Bridge UK is an independent motoring information platform and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the UK government.
Content reviewed: 20 October 2026. Source: GOV.UK Highway Code. Individual circumstances may affect legal obligations and enforcement.