Sundae driver: ice-cream fan caught driving with no hands
What’s your favourite thing about driving in the summer? Perhaps it’s the lighter evenings, or maybe it’s rolling down your windows and feeling that summer breeze in your hair?
Well, for one Tesla owner caught on camera this week, the best thing appears to be in-car ice-creams after he was seen tucking into a sundae while behind the wheel.
The motorist has caused a McFlurry of controversy on social media after the footage showed him driving hands-free, despite traveling at 50 mph during rush hour on the UK’s busiest motorway, the M25.
Too reliant on autopilot technology
The video, shot earlier this week, shows the man tucking into a McDonald’s sundae while driving his electric 2016 Tesla Model S near Heathrow Airport.
The Model S is fitted with so-called autopilot technology which allows the care to steer, accelerate and brake automatically within its lane, however the firm insists it requires driver supervision and ‘does not make the vehicle autonomous.
Punishment likely
While the Tesla autopilot feature is perfectly legal in the UK, the ice-cream enthusiast might still be breaking the law.
Rule 150 of the Highway Code states drivers “must not rely” on driver assistance systems and “must exercise full control over these systems at all times.”
This means motorists should have their hands on the wheel at all times, unlike the Tesla driver who was enjoying his sweet treat with both hands.
Any driver caught breaking this particular rule faces being slapped with a punishment that could lead to a fine of up to £5,000 and a driving ban.
“Genuine driverless cars” to be on UK roads by 2021
Currently, only cars that have “Level 2” autonomous technology are allowed to drive on UK roads. This level includes technology like lane-assist and automatic emergency braking.
However, in 2017 the UK Chancellor, Philip Hammond, announced plans to ensure “genuine driverless cars” are legally operational on the UK’s roads by 2021.
For more information on the rules of the road, read more guides and features on the 1ST Central Hub!
