The consultation presents proposed changes to The Highway Code to support the safe use of Automated Lane Keeping Systems to ensure clear responsibility between the driver and the vehicle.
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In the consultation The Department for Transport asks for comments to the wording of a new section in the Highway Code for automated vehicles supposed to achieve the following “We, therefore, propose the addition of a new section to The Highway Code, clearly articulating expectations for users of automated vehicles. This section will bring together the relevant rules for AVs. This change will bring the code up to date with the modern era, reflecting the changing technology available on our roads."
The proposed wording is as follows:
“Automated vehicles can perform all the tasks involved in driving, in at least some situations. They differ from vehicles fitted with assisted driving features (like cruise control and lane-keeping assistance), which carry out some tasks, but where the driver is still responsible for driving. If you are driving a vehicle with assisted driving features, you MUST stay in control of the vehicle.
Automated vehicles are vehicles that are listed by the Secretary of State for Transport. While an automated vehicle is driving itself, you are not responsible for how it drives, and you do not need to pay attention to the road. But you must follow the manufacturer’s instructions about when it is appropriate to engage the self-driving function.
If the vehicle is designed to require you to resume driving after being prompted to, while the vehicle is driving itself, you MUST remain in a position to be able to take control. For example, you should not move out of the driving seat. You should not be so distracted that you cannot take back control when prompted by the vehicle.
You are still responsible for the vehicle being in a roadworthy condition, having a current MOT test certificate if applicable, and being taxed and insured.”
CIHT's response made it clear that do not feel that the wording sufficiently clarifies the role of the driver when using a vehicle with driver-assistance features which would not fall into the category of automated driving.
CIHT believes that The Highway Code, and associated comprehensive public information, must address shortfalls in information and knowledge about new technologies before any changes to vehicle technology use are permitted. This must include addressing the use of the UK network by drivers from other countries who may also fail to understand the technology and its application.
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