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28/09/2007
Smokers Targeted In New Highway Code
Motorists who smoke while behind the wheel could face prosecution under a new rule in the latest edition of the Highway Code.
The new revised code, the first for eight years, contains 29 more rules than the previous edition.
These include a new safety code for novice drivers, which offer practical advice like "if you are driving with passengers, you are responsible for their safety. Don't let them distract you or encourage you to take risks," and "never show off or try to compete with other drivers, particularly if they are driving badly."
The code also includes new legislation on vehicle emissions and references new initiatives like quiet lanes, high-occupancy vehicle lanes, homes zones and active traffic management schemes.
Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: "The official Highway Code is for life, not just for passing your driving test. It is a crucial tool for all road users - car drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians alike - and applies to every stage of your life. Road safety is a responsibility we all share and everyone should have a copy of the Code to keep their knowledge up-to-date."
However, Andrew Howard, head of road safety for AA Public Affairs, said: "A major change is the code's inclusion of smoking at the wheel as behaviour that police may interpret as a distraction and failure to be in proper control of the vehicle.
"This addition will polarise drivers' opinions both for and against."
(KMcA)
The new revised code, the first for eight years, contains 29 more rules than the previous edition.
These include a new safety code for novice drivers, which offer practical advice like "if you are driving with passengers, you are responsible for their safety. Don't let them distract you or encourage you to take risks," and "never show off or try to compete with other drivers, particularly if they are driving badly."
The code also includes new legislation on vehicle emissions and references new initiatives like quiet lanes, high-occupancy vehicle lanes, homes zones and active traffic management schemes.
Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: "The official Highway Code is for life, not just for passing your driving test. It is a crucial tool for all road users - car drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians alike - and applies to every stage of your life. Road safety is a responsibility we all share and everyone should have a copy of the Code to keep their knowledge up-to-date."
However, Andrew Howard, head of road safety for AA Public Affairs, said: "A major change is the code's inclusion of smoking at the wheel as behaviour that police may interpret as a distraction and failure to be in proper control of the vehicle.
"This addition will polarise drivers' opinions both for and against."
(KMcA)
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Highway Code 'On The Road' 80 Years
One of Britain's best selling and most iconic publications - the Highway Code - is 80 years-old today. The first edition was published on 14 April 1931 in a bid to cut down on the number of accidents taking place on Britain's roads. Despite the fact there were just 2.
Highway Code 'On The Road' 80 Years
One of Britain's best selling and most iconic publications - the Highway Code - is 80 years-old today. The first edition was published on 14 April 1931 in a bid to cut down on the number of accidents taking place on Britain's roads. Despite the fact there were just 2.
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UK's Road Safety Week Beings
Police officers will be out in force this week talking to people about the dangers of the roads in support to Road Safety Week, which starts on Monday. Promoted by road safety charity Brake, Road Safety Week is about becoming more aware and helping put a stop to the fatal and serious injury collisions on our streets.
UK's Road Safety Week Beings
Police officers will be out in force this week talking to people about the dangers of the roads in support to Road Safety Week, which starts on Monday. Promoted by road safety charity Brake, Road Safety Week is about becoming more aware and helping put a stop to the fatal and serious injury collisions on our streets.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
