Video - new penalties for motorists
Date:Wednesday, March 01, 2017
Duration:1-min
Video - mobile phone distraction costs lives (new window, Movie 21698KB)
Transcript (new window, PDF 14KB)
Mobile phone - driver safety
It’s illegal to use a hand-held phone or similar device while driving, or riding a motorcycle. The rules are the same if you’re stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.
Studies show that drivers using a hands-free or handheld mobile phone are slower at recognising and reacting to hazards. Even careful drivers can be distracted by a call or text – and a split-second lapse in concentration could result in a crash.
The law
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It's illegal to use a handheld mobile when driving, or riding a motorcycle.
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This includes using your mobile phone to follow a map, read a text or check social media. This applies even if you’re stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.
Penalties
If you’re caught using a handheld phone while driving, you’ll get six penalty points on your license and a fine of £200.
This would be an immediate ban for newly-qualified drivers who have a ceiling of six points for the first two years after passing the test
More road safety information
Last updated: Thursday 13 July 2017
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