MOBILE PHONES
 Can I, can’t I? The mobile phone law explained
Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal and the penalty is 3 points and a £60 fine - and the possibility of disqualification and a prison sentence. The fine can be increased to a maximum fine of £1000 (£2500 for drivers of vans, lorries, buses or coaches) if the matter goes to court.
Is it OK to use my phone in a traffic jam?
It is illegal to use a handheld phone (or similar) even when you are stopped at traffic lights or in a queue of traffic. This includes making or receiving calls, pictures, text messaging or accessing the Internet. You must pull over to a safe location.
Does it only include mobiles?
No, Picking up or using any type of phone or similar device that must be held to operate would be breaking the law.
So I’m OK if I use a hands-free phone?
No, You can still be prosecuted for using a hands-free mobile phone if you fail to have proper control of your vehicle.
But £60 isn’t much money - is that the worst that will happen?
Drive carelessly or dangerously when using any phone or similar device and the penalties can include disqualification, a large fine, and up to two years imprisonment.
Why has the law been changed - it's not that dangerous is it?
You are four times more likely to have an accident when using a mobile phone (hands-free or hand-held). It is hard to concentrate on two things at once, and a phone will distract your attention away from driving.
Does that mean I can’t talk to my passenger?
No, if someone is in the car with you they can see what is going on around you - and will let you concentrate when you need to. Talking to someone on a phone takes up much more of your attention - and the person you are talking to can’t see what is going on.
Tips
Use a message service and stop in a safe place to pick up messages regularly on journeys. You may use your hand held phone in an emergency (999 or 112 call) but on a motorway it is best to use a roadside emergency telephone as the emergency services can locate you easily.
For more information visit www.thinkroadsafey.gov.uk.
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