The revamped Highways Code is also introducing new guidelines to improve safety for cyclists. For instance, bike-riders are now advised to cycle in the centre of lanes on quieter roads, in slower-moving traffic, and when approaching junctions, to make themselves as visible as possible.

Drivers are also being advised to open their doors with their left hand, a manoeuvre known as the “Dutch reach”, to encourage them to check for approaching cyclists.

The charity Cycling UK welcomed the new code, saying it was designed to lead to “improvements in safety” for cyclists.

However, Duncan Dollimore, the head of campaigns for Cycling UK, warned drivers and cyclists needed to be made aware of the incoming changes to the code.

He added: “If there’s confusion about what they are and what they mean, the golden opportunity of making our roads safer will be squandered.

“We can’t expect everyone who has passed their test to telepathically know let alone accept these changes at the stroke of midnight. It’s precisely why the government needs to commit to a long-term well-funded public awareness campaign that lasts beyond the summer.”

A communications drive will be launched by the Department for Transport’s road safety offshoot Think! in mid-February, with further activity later in the summer.

Roads minister Baroness Vere said this week that the updated Highway Code will make Britain’s roads safer and encourage people to “respect and consider the needs of those around them”.