Many people are unsure of the laws surrounding mobile phones and driving. Distracted driving is not only distraction from a mobile phone, it can also be distraction from passengers, eating, reading or even from music. It is any activity that takes your attention away from the road.
The 3 main causes of crashes globally are: distracted driving, speeds and poor infrastructure.
- UK Law states that it is illegal to use your mobile phone while driving unless you have hands free access.
- Hands free is not risk free, it is easy to become distracted while driving if you are not concentrating fully on the road. If you use hands free you must not become distracted.
- The police can stop you if they think you’re not in control because you’re distracted and you can be prosecuted.
- You can get 6 penalty points and a £200 fine if you use a hand-held phone. You will lose your licence if you have passed your driving test in the past two years. You can also be taken to court where you can be banned from driving or even get a fine of up to £1,000.
- The law still applies even if you are stopped at traffic lights, queuing in traffic or supervising a learner driver.
- It is not enough not to use your mobile phone when driving, touching your phone to check the time, to view notifications or even to change a song can cause distraction. You should not TOUCH your phone at all when your car has been started.
- To stop you from touching your mobile phone when driving or becoming distracted put your phone out of reach. This can be in your bag, glove compartment or even in the boot of your car. Switch your phone off or to silent and the sounds will not distract you.
- You are free to use a handheld phone when you are parked in a safe convenient place or to call 999.