Life

The latest edition of the Highway Code adds 29 new rules which all drivers ought to know and apply.

They cover such things as adjusting your sat nav, eating and talking when driving and protocols relating to disability vehicles.

The book is 42 pages longer than the previous version.

But how many of us will actually take the trouble to consult the new book?

Judging from the interviews BBC Leicester conducted in the street, quite a few folk have little idea of the new rules.

Listen: Views on the Code

BBC Leicester's Kat Sutton gathered views on the new Highway Code from local people...

For example, you are not allowed to adjust your sat nav whilst driving, smoke or listen to loud music.

Peter Roger, Chief Executive for the Institute of Advanced Motorists made the point that all this simply boiled down to whether an activity was liable to distract the driver.

"The problem isn't sucking a sweet," he said, "it's how you get it into your mouth."

He made a similar point about holding a conversation at the wheel. Talking is OK but indulging in an argument will, of course, distract you from driving properly.

Listen: The Experts

The AA and Institute for Advanced Motorists give their views...

Andy Howard, Head of Road Safety at the AA welcomed the new rules covering disability vehicles and trams.

Many towns and cities, for example Croydon, Nottingham and Manchester now have extensive light railway systems on their roads and such matters as right of way need to be regularised.

Similarly with disability vehicles.

BBC Leicester's Ben Jackson said that when he consulted the new Highway Code he was horrified to see how much had changed and how much he had forgotten.

I am sure he speaks for a great many mororists if they did but know it.