Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Linda Riordan (Labour) on Friday, 10 October 2014, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 14 October 2014. It was answered by Robert Goodwill (Conservative) on Friday, 17 October 2014 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Roads: Safety

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment his Department has made of the effect on road safety through driver distraction of inbuilt, in-car infotainment systems; and what plans he has to regulate the use of such systems.

Answer

Rules 148–150 of The Official Highway Code advises drivers to avoid distractions. The rules make it clear that drivers must exercise proper control of their vehicle.

It has been illegal since the 1980s to view a screen whilst driving, unless that screen is displaying driving information.

Under sections 2 and 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 a person may be charged with the offences of dangerous, careless and inconsiderate driving.

My officials recently met with a major ‘infotainment’ provider who were anxious not to pose a road safety risk through the use of their systems. They are considering technical options to allow it to be used in accordance with the law.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
209299
Session
2014-15
Subjects
ICT Driving Motor vehicles Safety Roads
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk