Rule 204 : The Hierarchy of Road Responsibility

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Highway Code Rule 204

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Rule 204 ↗
The road users most at risk from road traffic are pedestrians, in particular children, older adults and disabled people, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists. It is particularly important to be aware of children, older adults and disabled people, and learner and inexperienced drivers and riders. In any interaction between road users, those who can cause the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they pose to others.

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Rule 204 : The Hierarchy of Road Responsibility

VULNERABLE ROAD USERS

Pedestrians : Highest risk , especially children , older adults , & disabled .

Non - Motorized & Light - Vehicle : Cyclists & horse riders face significant risk .

HEIGHTENED AWARENESS

Priority Awareness Groups : Require particular awareness .

Learner & Inexperienced Drivers : Apply extra caution & awareness .

THE PRINCIPLE OF RESPONSIBILITY

Motorcyclists : Also vulnerable , despite motorized vehicle .

Greater Harm Potential

Greatest Responsibility

Proportional Responsibility :

Those who can cause greatest harm have greatest responsibility to reduce danger .

Reducing the Threat :

Responsible users must actively work to minimize their threat .