As you’re probably aware, it has been illegal to use a mobile phone whilst driving for several years now. Drivers who are found using their mobile phone whilst driving are not only putting their own lives at risk, they’re also endangering other drivers and pedestrians.Some people believe hands-free mobile devices should be made a necessity in cars to reduce the risk of accidents. According to the Think! campaign, reaction times of drivers using a phone are around 50% slower compared to normal driving. The dangers of using a mobile phone behind the wheel led to the combination being made illegal. This in turn sparked many hands-free accessories to increase in popularity as they provide a legal way to answer the phone whilst driving.
Possible Penalties
Different penalties depend on the severity of the offence and the current state of the driver’s licence. If you already have points on your licence you may ultimately have your licence temporarily revoked. If you’ve been accused of dangerous driving as a result of mobile phone use, you could even face imprisonment.
A first time offence usually results in 3 points on your licence and a fine of up to £1000 for vehicles carrying up to 8 passengers. A £2500 fine may be implemented for vehicles carrying 8 passengers or more. In certain cases, disqualification from driving for up to 56 days may be instigated by the Magistrates. If you do already have 3 points on your licence and are a new driver, you may experience a revoke of your licence. In such cases, you would have to retake your driving test.
If you’ve been driving for some time and already have acquired 9 points on your licence the Magistrates may consider disqualifying you from driving for a minimum of 6 months. Cases carrying special circumstances, or where exceptional hardship may occur as a result, you may be exempt from disqualification.
Some clarification points
Some terminology can be difficult to interpret or a bit sketchy. Clarifying certain rules can help you to thoroughly understand rules of using a mobile phone whilst driving.
- “Use of” refers to performing any interactive function on a mobile phone. This can include answering a call, sending or receiving a text, picture message or accessing the internet. If the action involves holding the device it’s illegal.
- The term “mobile phone” also covers other handheld interactive devices including Sat Navs and iPods.
- Stopping at the traffic lights and queuing in traffic jams are both included under the term “driving”, meaning use of handheld mobile devices is illegal in these situations.
- It’s also illegal to use a mobile phone whilst supervising a provisional learner. If you instruct a driver to answer the phone whilst on the road you could also be prosecuted.
Studies have shown that drivers are more likely to crash if they use a mobile phone whilst driving. Even if you don’t get caught you are still putting yourself and other drivers on the road at risk from an accident. If you think you may need to use your mobile phone at all whilst driving install a hands-free device into your car to avoid getting penalised or even worst, having an accident.
About The Author
Daniel Travis – Brown is an avid writer of both articles and scripts you can follow him on twitter @DanTravisBrown.This Article has been written on behalf of Just Motor Law