Changes were made to the Highway Code on 30th November 2018 which included rules for new advanced driver assistance systems and automated vehicle technologies.
With many of us already familiar with levels of automation ranging from simple cruise control to advanced auto-parking and even ‘remote summoning’, this technology is not only advancing at great speed, it’s becoming more widespread across makes and models as manufacturers strive to compete for today’s tech savvy customers. No doubt this is the first of many such updates to keep the roadway rulebook relevant.
As drivers, it’s our own responsibility to ensure we’re up to date with the Highway Code, so read on. The amendments to rules 149, 150, 160 and 239 cover the use (and mis-use) of in-vehicle technology, automated parking aids, and adherence to manufacturers’ instructions. They’re shown in full below, and here’s the link to read all the recent Highway Code updates.
Mobile phones and in-vehicle technology
Rule 149
You MUST exercise proper control of your vehicle at all times. You MUST NOT use a hand-held mobile phone, or similar device, when driving or when supervising a learner driver, except to call 999 or 112 in a genuine emergency when it is unsafe or impractical to stop. Never use a hand-held microphone when driving. Using hands-free equipment is also likely to distract your attention from the road. It is far safer not to use any telephone while you are driving or riding – find a safe place to stop first or use the voicemail facility and listen to messages later.
You may park your vehicle using a hand-held remote control app or device. The app or device MUST be legal, and you should not put other people in danger when you use it.
Rule 150
There is a danger of driver distraction being caused by in-vehicle systems such as satellite navigation systems, congestion warning systems, PCs, multi-media, etc. You MUST exercise proper control of your vehicle at all times. Do not rely on driver assistance systems such as motorway assist, lane departure warnings, or remote control parking. They are available to assist but you should not reduce your concentration levels. Do not be distracted by maps or screen-based information (such as navigation or vehicle management systems) while driving or riding. If necessary find a safe place to stop.
As the driver, you are still responsible for the vehicle if you use a driver assistance system (like motorway assist). This is also the case if you use a hand-held remote control parking app or device. You MUST have full control over these systems at all times.
General Rules
Rule 160 includes:
Once moving you should drive with both hands on the wheel where possible. This will help you to remain in full control of the vehicle at all times. You may use driver assistance systems while you are driving. Make sure you use any system according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Parking
Rule 239 includes:
Before using a hand-held device to help you to park, you MUST make sure it is safe to do so. Then, you should move the vehicle into the parking space in the safest way, and by the shortest route possible.
When you use a hand-held device to help you to park, you MUST remain in control of the vehicle at all times. Do not use the hand-held device for anything else while you are using it to help you park, and do not put anyone in danger. Use the hand-held device according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Moving Forward
This is a timely update given that the first self-driving cars — without a human in the driving seat — could be on our roads before the year is out in test vehicles. Road testing criteria previously required a human operator inside the car… it now requires a human to merely have the capability to take control remotely. The Department for Transport call these updated regulations “a strong signal of support from the UK automotive and technology industries.” Such fully autonomous ‘level 5’ vehicles aren’t yet available in the UK, though it’s expected that Level 4 autonomy (‘hands off’ and ‘eyes off’) will be available here soon.
Whether the path to full autonomy will be smooth and swift, or bumpy with barriers to progress remains to be seen. Indeed, many of the benefits lauded such as reduced congestion and faster travel times will only be realised when the majority of vehicles on our roads are fully autonomous – and that remains some way off.
Until then, this comes as a great reminder to use technology wisely… and whatever the level of automation in your vehicle, we recommend always keeping your eyes firmly on the road ahead!
If you’re interested in leasing a vehicle with autonomous technologies such as auto-parking, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, or even Tesla’s autopilot – call us on 01753 851561 or email [email protected] and we can help advise on the perfect vehicle and deal for you.