GOOD CALL
Using a phone while driving: UK laws and fines explained
New drivers could have their licences revoked if caught using their phones behind the wheel
DRIVING and dialling endangers everyone on the road, including yourself, and could land you in serious trouble.
Here's everything you need to know about using phones while in control of a vehicle — and how to stay on the right side of the law.
2
Can I use a mobile phone while driving?
Since 2003, it has been illegal to use a mobile phone for calls or texts while driving.
Initially, this only covered small parts of the law, like actually putting the phone to your ear while behind the wheel.
But on March 25, 2022, it became an offence to even hold a mobile phone while driving.
This includes both touching or swiping the phone's screen.
The law also applies when you have stopped in traffic or are waiting at traffic lights.
After being caught texting at the wheel while waiting in traffic, film director Guy Ritchie was banned from driving for six months in July 2020
There are exceptions to this rule though — using your phone to pay contactless at a drive through restaurant is allowed.
Even so, it is probably best to park safely and turn off your engine before using your mobile or other electronic device as a payment method.
MOST READ IN MOTORING
Can I use hands-free while driving?
As long as you don't press any buttons, you can use hands-free phones, sat navs and two-way radios when driving or riding.
The in-car touchscreen dashboard is not exempt from penalties, as director of Nationwide Vehicle Contract Keith Hawes warned.
I rescue broken down motors for a living - 10 easy checks drivers MUST make before their MOT... it'll save £1,000s
He said: “Touchscreens have become a common addition to modern vehicles, and the more complex they become, the more distracting they can be.
“If you are found to be not properly in control of your vehicle as a result of using dashboard gadgets or hands-free devices you could still be prosecuted.”
But if the police think you’re distracted and not in control of your vehicle you could still get stopped and penalised.
The law also applies to those riding a motorcycle.
Any hands-free devices should be fully set up before you start your ride.
Can I be fined for using my phone while driving?
2
Yes, you could be fined if you use your phone or any touchscreen device while driving.
Drivers could be hit with a £200 charge, but there's a chance you could be taken to court and fined a maximum of £1,000.
In this instance, drivers may face a driving ban for their actions.
You’ll also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last two years.
Can I get points added to my licence?
Previously, drivers caught on their phones received three penalty points, but government legislation doubled the amount to six points.
Ten things YOU should know as a car owner
To help you feel more confident as a car owner, here are ten things you should be familiar with about your vehicle:
- When is your MOT due? Find out here
- When is your car tax due? Find out here
- Is it illegal to drive barefoot?
- How many units can you drink and drive?
- What do dashboard warning lights mean?
- Is it illegal to drive without road tax?
- Can you be fined for breaking the highway code?
- How to change the address on your driving licence
- What does MOT stand for?
- Is it illegal to park across someone's driveway?
As new drivers only start with six points for their first two years on the road, a conviction will mean your licence being revoked and you have to retake both your theory and practical tests.
Previously, motorists in some police force areas could avoid points by taking a remedial driving course.
But ministers believed it wasn't tough enough so now those caught using a mobile phone for the first time automatically receive six penalty points.
What's the roadside detection system?
Trialled in Norwich in 2018, the scanning system was designed to automatically track detect drivers who are using phones.
It worked by sensing if a phone is in use in a car — and a symbol of a mobile with a line through it then flashed up on a sign as cars pass.
The equipment didn't record plates or issue fines but data was be shared with police.
It was also unable to tell whether a driver or passenger is using a handset.
It was trialled in Norfolk but was not expanded to the rest of the UK.
Topics