Unusual Highway Code Rules You Might Not Know About

When driving in the UK, most motorists are familiar with the basics of the Highway Code—obeying speed limits, stopping at red lights, and using indicators correctly. However, there are several lesser-known rules that could easily catch drivers out, and breaking them could result in fines or penalty points. From middle-lane hogging to the correct use of headlights, these unusual Highway Code rules might surprise you.

Animals Must Be Under Control When Being Herded – Rule 58

Most drivers wouldn’t expect to encounter a herd of animals on modern roads, but it still happens in rural areas. Rule 58 of the Highway Code states that when animals are being herded, they must be kept under control at all times. This means farmers and handlers must take responsibility for ensuring livestock doesn’t stray onto the road unexpectedly.

Drivers should also be cautious when approaching animals on the road, slowing down and stopping if necessary. If a herder gives a signal to stop, motorists must comply. Ignoring this rule could result in an accident, and drivers might be held liable if they cause harm to animals or their handlers.

It’s Illegal to Hog the Middle Lane – Rule 264

Middle-lane hogging is one of the most frustrating bad habits seen on UK motorways. Under Rule 264 of the Highway Code, drivers should always keep left unless overtaking. Staying in the middle lane when the left lane is clear is a traffic offence, and police can issue fines or penalty points for this behavior.

Middle-lane hogging disrupts the flow of traffic, forcing other drivers to undertake or weave between lanes. It can also contribute to congestion and road rage incidents. If you’ve ever been annoyed by a slow-moving vehicle sitting stubbornly in the middle lane, now you know—it’s not just bad driving; it’s actually illegal.

Don’t Park Your Car Facing the Wrong Way – Rule 248

Many people don’t realize that parking on the wrong side of the road at night is against the law. Rule 248 states that vehicles must not be parked facing against the direction of traffic after dark unless in a designated parking bay.

The reason for this rule is simple—cars parked the wrong way can be harder to see at night, as their rear reflectors won’t be facing oncoming traffic. This can increase the risk of collisions, especially on narrow or poorly lit roads. Motorists who ignore this rule could face a fine, even if their vehicle is legally parked otherwise.

The Rules on Flashing Headlights – Rule 110

Flashing headlights is a common way for drivers to communicate with each other, but under Rule 110, headlights should only be flashed to warn other road users of your presence. They should not be used to signal other drivers to proceed, give way, or express frustration.

This rule exists because flashing headlights can be misinterpreted. For example, if one driver flashes another to let them out of a junction, but a third vehicle is approaching at speed, it could result in a collision. Misuse of headlights in this way can lead to misunderstandings and accidents, making it a habit to avoid.

It’s Illegal to Use Your Horn at Night – Rule 112

Many drivers use their horns to warn others or express annoyance, but few realize that using a horn between 11:30 PM and 7:00 AM in a built-up area is actually illegal. Rule 112 states that a horn should only be used to alert others to your presence and must not be used unnecessarily or aggressively.

The rule aims to reduce noise pollution during nighttime hours, helping residents in urban areas get a good night’s sleep. Drivers who break this rule could face fines, particularly if complaints are made by local residents.

The Correct Use of Hazard Lights – Rule 116

Hazard warning lights should only be used in specific situations, as outlined in Rule 116 of the Highway Code. They are meant to warn other drivers of a hazard or obstruction, such as when a vehicle has broken down or is moving slowly due to an emergency.

Many drivers misuse hazard lights, switching them on when stopping illegally or double-parking. Another common mistake is using hazard lights in heavy rain or fog—this is dangerous because it can make turn signals harder to see. The correct procedure in poor visibility is to use fog lights instead.

You Must Drive Around Mini-Roundabouts, Not Over Them – Rule 188

Mini-roundabouts are a common feature in towns and cities, helping to keep traffic flowing at smaller junctions. However, some drivers treat them as optional, cutting straight across them instead of following the proper route. Rule 188 states that drivers must drive around the central markings of a mini-roundabout unless they are physically unable to do so due to their vehicle’s size.

Larger vehicles such as lorries and buses may have no choice but to slightly overrun the roundabout, but ordinary cars should always follow the circular route. Cutting straight across can cause confusion, near-misses, and even accidents if another driver is correctly navigating the roundabout.

Give Way to Pedestrians When Turning Off a Main Road – Rule 170

Pedestrians always have the right of way when crossing a junction, yet many drivers fail to follow this rule properly. Rule 170 states that when turning into or out of a side road, drivers must give way to pedestrians who are already crossing or waiting to cross.

This rule is crucial for pedestrian safety, but it’s often overlooked, with some drivers focusing solely on other vehicles. Failing to give way to pedestrians can not only cause accidents but also lead to fines or penalties if caught by police or captured on CCTV.

Give Way to Oncoming Traffic on a Hill – Rule 155

On narrow roads with steep gradients, it’s essential to know who has priority. Rule 155 states that when two vehicles meet on a hill, the vehicle travelling downhill should give way to the vehicle traveling uphill.

This rule is based on the idea that vehicles travelling uphill may have more difficulty stopping and restarting. On particularly narrow country roads, there may even be specific passing places where drivers should pull over to let oncoming vehicles pass safely.

Passing Cyclists When There’s a White Line – Rule 129

Overtaking cyclists safely is a key part of responsible driving, but there are specific rules about when and how it should be done. Rule 129 states that a solid white line in the centre of the road means you must not cross it to overtake, except in specific situations—including when passing a cyclist, horse rider, or road maintenance vehicle, but only if they are travelling at 10 mph or less.

This rule ensures that motorists do not take unnecessary risks when overtaking in dangerous areas, such as bends or narrow roads. However, if a cyclist is moving faster than 10 mph, drivers must wait until it is safe and legal to pass without crossing the solid white line.

Conclusion

These unusual Highway Code rules might not be as well-known as the standard regulations, but they are just as important. From giving way to pedestrians at junctions to using your headlights correctly, understanding these lesser-known rules can help you avoid fines, penalty points, and potential accidents. Whether you’re navigating mini-roundabouts, dealing with animals on the road, or simply trying to park legally, staying informed about the finer details of the Highway Code can make you a safer and more responsible driver.

We hope you enjoyed this post on Unusual Highway Code Rules You Might Not Know About. For something similar, see Road Tips for Travelling in Winter in the UK.

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