Highway Code says drivers can ‘take eyes off road’ | Tech News

The Highway Code has revealed drivers can legally take their eyes off the street whereas behind the wheel underneath one sure situation. The newest version of the Highway Code states motorists are allowed to “turn attention away from the road” if they’re behind the wheel of one kind of vehicle.

The most up-to-date information consists of provisions for self-driving autos, that are anticipated to hit the roads for the primary time in 2026. The UK Government stated it plans to change driving guidelines within the second half of 2026, with consultations held on the finish of final 12 months. 

Driverless taxi companies are already trying to operate providers in London, which could possibly be step one in direction of a wider autonomous vehicle rollout. However, the Highway Code has already been rewritten with drivers seemingly off the hook when having fun with a trip in a driverless car. 

The Code reads: “While a self-driving vehicle is driving itself in a valid situation, you are not responsible for how it drives. You may turn your attention away from the road and you may also view content through the vehicle’s built-in infotainment apparatus, if available.”

The Code added that drivers “do not need to monitor” the car while the vehicle is driving itself. Despite this, the Code states that individuals sitting in driverless cars must still be fit to drive and ready to take over control at a moment’s notice. 

This means street customers have to be within the drink-drive legal limits and never underneath the affect of medicine. Rules additionally state that street customers should not use a handheld cell phone, or any comparable hand-held system.

Meanwhile, the driverless vehicle should nonetheless be street legal, with a legitimate MOT certificates and taxed and insured. Although drivers should not accountable when the car is driving by itself, street customers can be held accountable as soon as control is shifted back to the human.

The Code added: “If a self-driving vehicle needs to hand control back to the driver, it will give you enough warning to do this safely. You MUST always be able and ready to take control, and do it when the vehicle prompts you. 

“For example, you should stay in the driving seat and stay awake. When you have taken back control or turned off the self-driving function, you are responsible for all aspects of driving.”