UK Government Sets New Rules for Self-Driving Cars
The UK Government has announced changes to the Highway Code aimed at making the first wave of self-driving tech safer on British roads. Thatcham Research, a key voice in the debate on Automated Driving, has weighed in on the new rules following consultation with the Law Commission.
Thatcham Research Welcomes Focus on Driver Responsibility
Matthew Avery, Chief Research Strategy Officer at Thatcham Research, said: “This is a major step towards safe Automated Driving in the UK.” He stressed the importance of education, adding:
“Drivers must fully understand their legal obligations when behind the wheel of any vehicle with ‘self-driving capability.’”
Avery warned that despite automation’s promise to reduce accidents, crashes will still happen. He insisted that data showing who was in control during a collision must be recorded and made accessible to everyone, not just carmakers.
Liability and Legal Wrangling Still Cloud the Future
The thorny question of who pays when self-driving cars crash remains unresolved. Carmakers and insurers will have to join forces to handle claims where the vehicle was in control. Avery pointed to Mercedes’s recent move to accept liability when their ‘Drive Pilot’ system is engaged but stressed more transparency is needed:
“Access to collision data is vital to prevent legal battles from slowing adoption.”
No Mobile Phones, Only Infotainment Systems Allowed
Thatcham also praised the decision to ban mobile phone use while driving automated vehicles, allowing only the car’s infotainment system. Avery explained this helps:
“Ensure the self-driving system can issue warnings and quickly bring the driver back into control when needed.”
Keeping drivers alert and ready to take over at a moment’s notice remains a key safety priority under the new Highway Code changes.
