Jersey Road Safety Hub

Jersey’s Highway Code

Jersey’s Highway Code has some slight differences compared to the UK Highway Code. For a complete guide to road rules and regulations specific to Jersey, please see the full Jersey Highway Code listed below.

Table of Contents

The UK’s Highway Code 

The Jersey Highway Code is based on the UK’s Official Highway Code, issued by the Department for Transport. All road users should therefore be familiar with the UK rules, as they provide the foundation for Jersey’s own code. 

Learner drivers and riders, in particular, are required to study the UK Highway Code to prepare for the theory test and to develop safe, responsible road habits. You can view the UK Highway Code here.

Jersey’s Highway Code 

The Jersey Highway Code is published as a supplement to the UK Highway Code and sets out the Jersey-specific rules that apply under local road traffic laws. 

These adaptations clarify where Jersey’s requirements differ from the UK and ensure that all road users understand the Island’s unique road environment. You can view the Jersey Highway Code here.

2022 Update to the Highway Code

In January 2022, the UK introduced advisory changes to the Highway Code designed to improve safety for people walking, cycling, and horse riding. 

These updates, which also apply in Jersey, place greater emphasis on being ready to give priority, leaving sufficient space, and showing consideration for others. 

While every road user remains responsible for their own safety and that of others, the changes highlight the need to protect more vulnerable road users on the road. You can find the changes pictured and described below.

People Crossing and Cycling at Junctions

Leaving Vehicles

Give priority to people crossing, waiting to cross or cycling straight ahead when turning in and out of junctions.

Leaving Vehicles

If they’re able to, vehicle users should open their door with the hand furthest from the door, looking over their shoulder to see people walking or cycling nearby.

Positioning in the Road when Cycling - Single

Positioning in the Road when Cycling - Pair

People cycling may ride in the centre of the lane on narrow or quiet roads, in slow-moving traffic, or at junctions as this may be the safest position, allowing others to overtake when it is safe to do so.

Positioning in the Road when Cycling - Pair

Two people can ride two abreast and it can be safer for them to do so.

Overtaking Cyclists

Overtaking Horses

When travelling at up to 30 mph, leave at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) when overtaking people cycling and give them more space when overtaking at higher speeds.

Overtaking Horses

Pass horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles at speeds under 10 mph and allow at least 2 metres (6.5 feet) of space.

Overtaking Pedestrians

Shared Spaces

Allow at least 2 metres (6.5 feet) of space and keep to a low speed when passing people walking on the road.

Shared Spaces

Pass horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles at speeds under 10 mph and allow at least 2 metres (6.5 feet) of space.

Hierarchy of Road Users

However you travel, those who can cause the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the risk they may pose to others.