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The Laws for Using Mobile Phones When Driving in the UK
Reading time 4 minutes • Last updated on February 26th, 2021
Categories Driving Law »
Last updated on February 26th, 2021What does this mean?
Next up in our UK Driving Laws series, we’re looking at the laws surrounding using a mobile phone or similar device while driving a vehicle. The dangers of using a mobile while driving have long been advertised, and the action became a legal offence as far back as 2003, yet shockingly The Department of Transport report that deaths due to mobile phone distractions are more prevalent than all other in-car causes.
The dangers of making calls or replying to text messages while operating a vehicle have long been established. However, with the rise of smartphones and increasing technological developments, phones have now become multi-platformed and offer more services than previous models. Unfortunately, drivers are taking advantage of the increased capabilities of their phones while operating a vehicle. Selfies while driving are becoming a particular problem, with one study showing that 15% of 18 to 24-year-olds and 19% of 25 to 35-year-olds admitted to having taking a selfie while driving.
A spokesperson for the Institute of Advanced Motorists stated that ‘campaigns must be introduced to raise awareness of the prevalence of the issue in society and make this behaviour as socially unacceptable as drink-driving.’
A survey conducted by the RAC showed that almost a third of UK motorists had used their phone at the wheel, whether to make a call, read a text or use an app.
Studies have shown that motorists distracted by their phones have slower reaction times than those who are concentrating fully on the road, and when operating a vehicle, a split-second is all it takes for accidents to occur. The Department of Transport shows that using a phone was a contributory factor to 492 accidents in Britain, 21 of which were fatal and all of which could have been avoided if the drivers’ attention wasn’t split.
The laws regarding using a hand-held phone or a similar device are very simple: It is always illegal to use a phone or device in any way, shape or form while driving a vehicle or riding a motorcycle, even while stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.
If you are supervising a learner driver or rider then you are also not permitted to use a mobile or hand-held device.
It is only permissible to use a mobile phone in your vehicle if you are parked up safely or if you need to call 999 or 112 while operating a car and it is unsafe to attempt to stop your vehicle.
It is permissible to use a hands-free device while driving a car or riding a motorbike, but if your attention is divided because of this and you are not in proper control of your vehicle, you may still be penalised under reckless driving. Only use a hands-free device if you are confident that it won’t affect your driving abilities.
If you are caught using your phone while driving you will receive an automatic fixed penalty of a £200 fine and six points on your licence.
If your case was to be taken to court, you could receive a driving ban and a fine of up to £1,000, or £2,500 if you were driving a bus or goods vehicle.
These are just the penalties for driving using a mobile or handheld device, however. If you were to be charged for reckless driving, or causing death or injuries while using your mobile, you could face an unlimited fine, a prison sentence and a driving ban.
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All statistics and figures were taken from independent research not carried out by The Windscreen Company and were correct on the date of publishing.
The Windscreen Company, has over 20 years of experience in windscreen repair and replacement. Since 1998, they have been at the forefront of industry innovation, leveraging the latest technology to ensure customer safety and satisfaction.
The Windscreen Company's, help-and-advice pages offer valuable tips and guidance on maintaining vehicle safety through quality windscreen care, while also featuring updated industry realted content.
The information within this article was accurate on the date the article was last updated based on the information that was openly available on the topic online. The Windscreen Company accepts no liability for any loss or damage caused by or connected with any error or omission in this article. You should make your own judgement in regards to use of this document and seek professional advice on your particular circumstances.
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