Highway Code Rule Updates 2019 – keep in control

New Year – New Updates.

As the pace of car technology increases, the Highway Code has been updated to incorporate some of these for 2019.

Here is a definitive guide from First Drive regarding the updated rules to look out for:

Highway Code Rule 149

Mobile phones and in-vechicle technology.

Rule 149 talks about the use of a hand held mobile phone and the responsibilities you have as a driver. It is also important to state that the phrase ‘or similar device’ is used within the rule which for example means a tablet or smart watch. This rule also applies to those supervising a learner driver.

UPDATE
You may park your vehicle using a hand-held remote control app or device. The app or device MUST be legal, and you should not put other people in danger when you use it.

Highway Code Rule 150

Distraction from in car technology

When driving it is important to keep your eyes on the road at all times. Car technology is moving quickly towards better voice commands and easy to use infotainment helping reduce the time you need to take your eyes off the road. The update here goes further to include hand held remote control systems and apps.

UPDATE
As the driver, you are still responsible for the vehicle if you use a driver assistance system (like motorway assist). This is also the case if you use a hand-held remote control parking app or device. You MUST have full control over these systems at all times.

Highway Code Rule 150

Distraction from in car technology

When driving it is important to keep your eyes on the road at all times. Car technology is moving quickly towards better voice commands and easy to use infotainment helping reduce the time you need to take your eyes off the road. The update here goes further to include hand held remote control systems and apps.

UPDATE
As the driver, you are still responsible for the vehicle if you use a driver assistance system (like motorway assist). This is also the case if you use a hand-held remote control parking app or device. You MUST have full control over these systems at all times.

Highway Code Rule 160

Once moving

Rule 160 covers some basics when being on the move. This update is again taking into account additional car technology.

UPDATE
Drive with both hands on the wheel where possible. This will help you to remain in full control of the vehicle at all times. You may use driver assistance systems while you are driving. Make sure you use any system according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Highway Code Rule 239

Waiting and parking

Parking may appear to be a straight forward exercise but even a small lapse in concentration or control can lead to an annoying bump or worse.

UPDATE
Before using a hand-held device to help you to park, you MUST make sure it is safe to do so. Then, you should move the vehicle into the parking space in the safest way, and by the shortest route possible.
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When you use a hand-held device to help you to park, you MUST remain in control of the vehicle at all times. Do not use the hand-held device for anything else while you are using it to help you park, and do not put anyone in danger. Use the hand-held device according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Highway Code Rule 253

Motorways

A very good update to the law regarding learner drivers and motorway tuition where a motorway is available. During a driving test however, the motorway will still not be used.

UPDATE
From 4 June 2018 provisional licence holders may drive on the motorway if they are accompanied by an approved driving instructor and are driving a car displaying red L plates (D plates in Wales), that’s fitted with dual controls.

Highway Code Rule 108

General rules and advice

Traffic officers play an important role keeping our roads moving and dealing with minor issues. They do have the power to pull a vehicle over and this law has now extended to Wales as well.

UPDATE
Traffic officers have powers to stop vehicles on most motorways and some ‘A’ class roads, in England and Wales. If traffic officers in uniform want to stop your vehicle on safety grounds (e.g. an insecure load) they will, where possible, attract your attention by flashing amber lights, usually from behind directing you to pull over to the side by pointing and/or using the left indicator.

You MUST then pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so. Then switch off your engine. It is an offence not to comply with their directions (see ‘Signals by authorised persons’).