A Kenilworth cyclist who was forced to quit her job as a firefighter after being hit by a car has said more publicity is needed for the changes to the Highway Code.

New rules introduced this weekend mean drivers now have to give cyclists and pedestrians more room on the roads.

And a new hierarchy of road users has been introduced to protect those most at risk of collisions.

But Alison Insley, who was hit by a car as she cycled home from squash coaching last May, said people did not know about the new rules.

"People don't know about the changes," she said speaking to BBC Coventry and Warwickshire.

"I absolutely welcome the changes to protect the most vulnerable people, the priorities are bang on.

"But there has not been enough publicity so now there will be more frustration on the road, and potentially more accidents."

In the new rules, cyclists are given clear priority over cars, which must leave at least 1.5m room when passing bicycles and bikes must remain at least 50cm from the pavement.

In slow moving traffic, bikes must now ride in the centre of the road rather than to the left, and guidance also suggests that cyclists could ride two abreast to further protect themselves.

Cyclists are also now given priority at roundabouts.

Alison said the importance of the new rules couldn't be overstated after the life changing impact of her crash last May.

"A car hit me from behind trying to overtake me. She hit my arm as I was indicating right – my arm was in her way and she couldn't get past me.

"It has been life-changing, I haven't worked since that day, for eight months.

"I had to hand in my notice as a firefighter because I couldn't handle it mentally, the pressure of having to try and recover."

Local cycling charity Cycleways has also criticised the government for poor publicity of the changes.

"The specific measures such as the Dutch reach, priority over vehicles turning left and specific minimum passing distances should make life easier and safer for cyclists too - if observed," a spokesperson said.

"But the changes need to be widely publicised and should be built on to create a cultural change on the roads with more courtesy and regard for all users."