The Highway Code Change That’ll Let You Watch TV While Driving
By Blind Spot DriveBlog
The Highway Code Change That’ll Let You Watch TV While Driving
Outline
- Introduction
- Brief overview of the upcoming change in The Highway Code
- Context: Recent crackdown on mobile phone use while driving
- The Highway Code Amendment
- Specifics of the amendment allowing entertainment in self-driving cars
- Key conditions for the allowance
- Understanding Self-Driving Cars
- Definition and levels of autonomy in self-driving technology
- How self-driving technology enables safe screen use while driving
- Conditions for Watching TV in Self-Driving Cars
- Speed restrictions (under 37mph)
- Lane restrictions and congestion requirements
- Netflix and Drive: What It Means for Drivers
- In-car entertainment options allowed under the new rules for the highway code
- How infotainment systems will be regulated
- Limitations and Safety Measures
- Requirement to remain alert and ready to take control in the highway
- Restrictions on reclining or sleeping while using screens
- Why Mobile Phone Use Remains Banned
- Differences between in-car screens and handheld devices
- Research on mobile phone use and response times in vehicles
- Safety Mechanisms in Self-Driving Cars
- Automatic pausing of entertainment for driver intervention
- Technology that supports the driver’s safety and awareness
- Government’s Self-Driving Car Strategy
- Overview of the UK’s plans for self-driving vehicles by 2025
- Investment and regulatory framework being developed
- Projected Benefits of Self-Driving Vehicles
- Reduced human error in accidents
- Potential for safer, more efficient roadways
- Public and Expert Reactions
- Mixed opinions: support and concerns from road safety groups
- Quotes from industry experts and government officials
- Comparing the UK with Other Countries
- Countries leading in self-driving regulations
- How the UK’s policy aligns globally
- Potential Concerns and Criticisms
- Road safety and monitoring self-driving technology
- Ethical and social considerations of screen use while driving
- The Future of Commuting with Self-Driving Cars
- How everyday driving could change with self-driving tech
- Long-term expectations for self-driving adoption
- Conclusion
- Summarizing the impact of the Highway Code amendment
- Final thoughts on self-driving cars and the road to the future
The Highway Code Change That’ll Let You Watch TV While Driving
The UK government’s recent updates to the Highway Code have created a stir, primarily because they allow drivers to watch TV in their cars—something that’s long been banned due to safety concerns. But there’s a twist: this new privilege only applies if you’re sitting in a self-driving car. So, what does this change mean for drivers, and why are mobile phones still off-limits?
The Highway Code Amendment
Starting in 2024, drivers in self-driving cars will be able to watch videos, check emails, and use other screen-based features on built-in infotainment systems. However, the privilege comes with conditions. To be eligible, the vehicle must be in self-driving mode, moving under 37 mph, and staying in a single lane, especially in congestion or traffic.
This amendment is part of the UK’s broader push towards integrating self-driving technology on public roads, preparing drivers for the coming age of autonomous cars.
Understanding Self-Driving Cars
Self-driving, or autonomous, vehicles can navigate roads without human input, thanks to advanced systems that control steering, braking, and acceleration. These cars range from Level 0 (no automation) to Level 5 (full automation). The UK’s guidelines are aimed at Level 3 automation—cars that can handle most driving tasks but still require the driver to be ready to intervene.
Conditions for Watching TV in Self-Driving Cars
The allowance isn’t a free pass for unlimited entertainment. To comply, vehicles must:
- Be in self-driving mode and travel below 37 mph
- Remain in a single lane, typically in traffic or congestion
- Ensure the driver stays alert to take over if needed
These conditions aim to prevent distractions and ensure that drivers are always prepared to regain control.
Netflix and Drive: What It Means for Drivers
With The Highway Code update, drivers in self-driving cars can watch streaming services or use other entertainment options via the vehicle’s infotainment system. This could mean browsing Netflix or catching up on emails during stop-and-go traffic. However, these in-car systems are designed with safeguards that can pause or interrupt the content when driver intervention is required.
Limitations and Safety Measures
Despite the new relaxation, safety is still a top priority. Drivers are required to stay alert and ready to assume control at any time. Napping or reclining in the seat is not permitted, and the car must be able to prompt the driver if an immediate takeover is needed.
Why Mobile Phone Use Remains Banned
Interestingly, while in-car screens are becoming more permissible, mobile phones are still banned. Why? Research shows that handheld devices significantly slow reaction times, while the in-car systems can instantly stop entertainment and prompt the driver. The Department for Transport (DfT) cites this as a critical safety difference, helping to ensure drivers remain responsive.
Safety Mechanisms in Self-Driving Cars
Modern self-driving vehicles are equipped with technology designed to minimize the risks of distraction. Should the car need driver intervention, the infotainment system can automatically switch off, alerting the driver to take over. These safety mechanisms are essential to balance the perks of autonomous driving with the necessity of driver awareness.
Government’s Self-Driving Car Strategy
The UK government has set an ambitious target: fully regulated self-driving vehicles by 2025. This includes creating a legal framework, assessing insurance implications, and working closely with tech companies to ensure vehicles meet high safety standards. By paving the way for self-driving cars, the UK aims to be a global leader in autonomous technology.
Projected Benefits of Self-Driving Vehicles
The government anticipates several advantages, including safer roads. With an estimated 88% of accidents attributed to human error, autonomous cars have the potential to significantly reduce crashes. Self-driving cars could also reduce congestion and emissions, aligning with the UK’s sustainability goals.
Public and Expert Reactions
The public has shown mixed reactions. Some embrace the convenience of self-driving technology, while others express concerns about safety when you at the highway. Road safety organizations are urging cautious rollout, while government officials and industry experts believe this technology will revolutionize travel.
Comparing the UK with Other Countries
The UK isn’t alone in exploring autonomous driving laws. Countries like Germany, Japan, and the U.S. are also advancing self-driving regulations. By 2025, many of these nations hope to have frameworks that enable more widespread use of self-driving technology.
Potential Concerns and Criticisms
Not everyone is on board with the idea of watching TV while driving in the highway, even in self-driving cars. Some safety experts worry that drivers may become too comfortable and fail to intervene quickly when needed. There are also concerns about ethical decisions made by autonomous cars in emergency situations.
The Future of Commuting with Self-Driving Cars
Imagine a future where your commute involves relaxing with a movie, responding to emails, or even catching up on a good book—all while your car does the driving. As self-driving technology improves, daily routines could transform, making travel time more productive or enjoyable.
Conclusion
The Highway Code change marks a significant step towards autonomous driving in the UK, opening up new opportunities and challenges. With restrictions and safeguards, drivers can experience a safer, more convenient journey without compromising road safety. While there’s still a way to go before fully autonomous vehicles become the norm, this amendment hints at an exciting, technology-driven future.
FAQs
1. Will I be able to watch TV in any car?
No, only self-driving cars that meet specific requirements will allow this feature.
2. Is it safe to watch TV while driving in the highway ?
Yes, if the vehicle is fully capable of autonomous driving. Safety mechanisms are in place to ensure you stay alert.
3. Why are mobile phones still banned in the highway?
Mobile phones are more distracting, and they don’t have automatic pause capabilities like in-car systems do.
4. When will we see fully autonomous cars in the UK?
The government plans for fully regulated self-driving cars by 2025.
5. What if my car requests me to take control, but I’m distracted?
The car’s system will prompt you to take control and pause entertainment, ensuring you’re ready to drive.
Photos by Malte Helmhold on Unsplash.
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