They include the introduction of a 'Hierarchy of Responsibility' giving people in control of bigger and more dangerous vehicles greater responsibility for ensuring the safety of more vulnerable road users. For example, this means drivers of cars, vans and lorries are more likely than before to be held responsible for collisions with cyclists and pedestrians.
There are also changes to the rules on how motorists and cyclists interact at junctions, new guidelines on overtaking safely - the minimum safe passing distance is now 1.5m - and clearer guidance on opening car doors safely to avoid hitting passing cyclists.
Cycling UK have produced an informative video that explains the changes clearly - please make sure you understand the new rules and what they mean for you.
