Tough new penalties for those that flout the law
The penalty for being caught using a hand-held mobile while driving has changed.
From 27 February, drivers automatically get three points on their licence and a £60 fine if they break the law, or if they are found not to be in proper control of their vehicle while using a mobile phone.
Drivers that use a hand-held mobile phone while at the wheel react 30 per cent more slowly and miss significantly more road signs than those driving under the influence of alcohol.
Road safety expert David Frost, from the Local Authority Road Safety Officers Association, said:
“We all lead really busy lives and multi-tasking is the norm for most people. But it’s hard to concentrate on driving and have a phone conversation at the same time. Research shows that you’re four times more likely to have a crash when talking on a mobile phone.ii In a nutshell, if you’re having a conversation, or texting, while driving, you put your life and the lives of other road users at real risk.”
To keep you, your family and friends safe whilst driving try the following:
- Switch off before you drive off – use voicemail or call diversion whether your phone is hand-held or hands-free
- It's best to use your phone only if you have stopped in a safe place – but do not use the hard shoulder of a motorway
- If you make a call to someone and realise they are driving, kill the conversation.
For more information, please visit
www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk
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