Self-driving vehicles section added to Highway Code

From the 1st of July, new rules on the use of self-driving vehicles in Great Britain have come into force, the changes are included in a new section in The Highway Code.

Currently only vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems are available in the UK. No vehicles in Great Britain have been classed as self-driving yet but they could start to be as soon as next year.

What’s changing in the new section?

The changes to the Code will help ensure the new technology will be used safely, explaining clearly that while travelling in self-driving mode, motorists must be ready to resume control in a timely way if they are prompted to – such as when they approach motorway exits. It also includes details about appropriate insurance needed for self-driving cars. 

The plans also include a change to current regulation, allowing drivers to view content which is not related to driving on built-in display screens, while the self-driving vehicle is in control, it will however, still be illegal to use mobile phones in self-driving mode, given the greater risk they pose in distracting drivers as shown in research.

The government is working with the manufacturer, retailer and leasing industries to ensure that anyone accessing a self-driving vehicle will receive advice on how to use it. 

To view a copy of the current Highway Code, click HERE.

For more information or assistance on transport compliance and updated regulations, please contact our team on hello@teamlogico.co.uk