New road rules could see thousands of motorists be able to use bus lanes under new guidance given to local authorities around the UK.
As part of new guidance introduced today, January 15, 2024, local authorities will have the flexibility to allow motorcyclists to use bus lanes in their area.
The new rules outline what local authorities need to make the changes, explain the use of traffic signs to implement schemes and provide advice on monitoring schemes.
Trials were launched in the 1990s to allow motorcyclists to use bus lanes, with various other projects taking place to determine the effects of such a measure.
The new measures are being rolled out through the Plan for Drivers
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According to the Department for Transport, local authorities should allow motorcyclists wherever it is appropriate to do so.
If local authorities wish to adopt these changes, they are advised to launch consultations that will result in better acceptance of new schemes and lead to fewer problems.
Any consultation should include motorcyclists, bus and freight operators, taxi drivers, pedestrians, equestrians, cyclists and disabled people.
If laws were to be changed to allow motorcyclists to use bus lanes, local authorities would need to install new signs prescribed in the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions guidance.
The Government highlights how using a motorcycle can have a number of benefits, including being a cheaper alternative to cars, providing a shorter journey time in traffic and reducing overall congestion.
Policy documents highlight how the likelihood of technical issues is low given that motorcycles are easily distinguishable from other vehicles.
It urged local authorities to consider any safety implications, the effect on vulnerable road users and the reduction in congestion, as well as anything else that could occur as a result of the changes.
There were also calls for greater attention to be paid to any changes along routes where there could be frequent stoppages by buses as this could impact motorcyclists and car drivers.
This is part of the Government’s Plan for Drivers commitment to create “smoother journeys” for all road users.
It outlined a need to strengthen guidance to make sure bus lanes help rather than hinder traffic by operating only when buses are running, or when traffic is heavy enough to cause delays to buses.
The second point of the 30-point Plan for Drivers is to “make better use of bus lanes” which is being rolled out now.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “The measures in this plan will make driving as straightforward, smooth, fair, environmentally responsible and safe as possible.
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Motorcyclists could be given the green light to use bus lanes
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“We will draw from the best in technological innovation to enable traffic to flow more smoothly and with fewer hold-ups.”
Government data suggests that 1.4 million people use motorcycles, scooters and mopeds.