The Department of Transport has issued the new Highway Code. From what I can tell, the online version has not yet been updated. Anyway, it’s started…
Under the new Highway Code, which comes into force today, having a cigarette while driving is a breach of the rules of the road and classed as a “distraction”.
It means that if a driver crashes his or her car while smoking they could be charged with driving without due care and attention. That could mean a fine of up to £2,500, three to nine penalty points or even a ban.
And just how many road traffic incidents are caused by smokers smoking while driving? Ah, but, the department isn’t worried about little things like evidence. These are the same half-wits who introduced the rule requiring motorcyclists to ride with daytime headlights – despite there being no evidence whatsoever that it makes the slightest bit of difference to the rider’s safety. So what we have is unfounded assertion being used to persecute people. Nothing new there, then. Update – found it; Rule 148.
Other additions include drivers being advised to stop if they are dazzled by the sun. (Rule 237)
Oh, great. And then what? Wait for a cloud to come out? Wait for the sun to go down? If I am dazzled by the sun, I put my sunglasses on or flip down the sun visor on my helmet (depending on what vehicle I’m using). It’s called applying common sense. Clearly, common sense is a commodity that is becoming increasingly uncommon and is entirely absent in the echelons of government. Again, no surprises there.
Other additions include drivers being advised to stop if they are dazzled by the sun. (Rule 237)…
More ill-thought out advice.. Ripe for a nice spot of unintended consequences methinks.
Example:
If I drive around the corner and get blinded by the sun and stop at the side of the road [assuming I can see the kerb], then the person right behind me will do the same and will try to stop in exactly the same place where my [now stationary] car is parked….
Did this ever occur to them?
This of course assumes their vehicle is the same as mine, with a similar stopping distance.
What’s the chance someone will be crushed by that 38 tonner 50 yards behind them.
Utter cretins…… why do we allow these people to make such policy/recommendations?
Unfortunately this is the consequence of nanny-state thinking, whereby everything has to be spelled out to us as we are too stupid to work things out for ourselves. The Highway Code is a sound idea that has degenerated into unnecessary micro management.
As to your last question… If you find out, I’d love to know.