When did you last read the Highway Code?

Drivers are being urged to make sure they keep up to date with the rules of the road, as research shows that less than a quarter of motorists read the Highway Code after passing their test.

In an online survey of 400 road users, only 23 per cent said they had read the Highway Code since they passed their practical driving test.

In response, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has been encouraging drivers to sign up to receive reminders and updates about the Highway Code on email or social media. The Highway Code already has over 50,000 Twitter followers and 38,000 likes on Facebook. The majority of people who receive updates from the Highway Code say they have used the roads differently since signing up to receive alerts, and 80 per cent said their knowledge had improved.

DVSA has now updated the online version of the Highway Code to make it easier to find rules and see recent changes.

Transport Minister, Lord Ahmad, said: “The Highway Code is essential reading for all road users – not just those who are learning to drive. It’s now easier than ever to keep up to date with the Highway Code and the rules of the road.

“Making sure all road users keep their skills and knowledge up to date will help to keep Britain’s roads amongst the safest in the world.”

Road users can keep up to date with the Highway Code and get regular reminders about the rules on Twitter, Facebook or by e-mail alert

Last year DVSA sought feedback from those who have already signed up for the Highway Code social media alert service. The results show that:

• 83 per cent of respondents said that their knowledge has improved since signing up to the service
• 63 per cent of respondents said that they have used the road differently since signing up for the alerts
• 94 per cent of respondents said that they would recommend the service to family and friends

Test your Highway Code knowledge

1. What’s the national speed limit for lorries on a single carriageway?
a) 30 mph
b) 40 mph
c) 50 mph
d) 60 mph

2. What’s the maximum fine for dangerous driving?
a) £2,000
b) £5,000
c) £7,000
d) An unlimited fine

3. Officers from which agency have powers to stop vehicles on all roads in England and Wales?
a) Driving Standards Agency
b) Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency
c) Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
d) Vehicle and Operator Services Agency

4. What’s the legal limit for breath alcohol in Scotland?
a) 10 microgrammes per 100 millilitres of breath
b) 22 microgrammes per 100 millilitres of breath
c) 35 microgrammes per 100 millilitres of breath
d) 42 microgrammes per 100 millilitres of breath

5. In England and Wales, it’s illegal to smoke in an enclosed private vehicle carrying passengers under what age?
a) 14 years old
b) 16 years old
c) 17 years old
d) 18 years old

Click here to reveal the answers.