The Highway Code has revealed drivers can legally take their eyes off the road while behind the wheel under one certain condition. The latest edition of the Highway Code states motorists are allowed to “turn attention away from the road” if they are behind the wheel of one type of vehicle.
The most recent guide includes provisions for self-driving vehicles, which are expected to hit the roads for the first time in 2026. The UK Government said it plans to change driving rules in the second half of 2026, with consultations held at the end of last year.
Driverless taxi firms are already looking to operate services in London, which could be the first step towards a wider autonomous vehicle rollout. However, the Highway Code has already been rewritten with drivers seemingly off the hook when enjoying a ride 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 road users must be within the drink-drive legal limits and not under the influence of drugs. Rules also state that road users must not use a handheld mobile phone, or any similar hand-held device.
Meanwhile, the driverless vehicle must still be road legal, with a valid MOT certificate and taxed and insured. Although drivers are not responsible when the car is driving by itself, road users will be held accountable once 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.”