Drivers are being warned as new laws come into place this month.
The changes are being made to crack down on those who use mobile phones and other devices while driving. The changes come after the Department for Transport reported 17 people were killed on British roads in crashes involving drivers distracted by mobile phones in 2020.
A further 114 people were seriously injured and 385 were slightly injured in such collisions. Right now, motorists can only be penalised for 'interactive communication' using a hand-held device while driving, such as texting or phone calls (other than in an emergency).
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But, from March 25, drivers in the UK will not be allowed to handle any mobile device while in control of a car. This will also include being stationary in traffic, such as at traffic lights or motorway queues. The new rules mean drivers are unable to touch their devices to check the time or notifications, take photos or videos, scroll through playlists, or access any apps or the internet.
Anyone caught using their hand-held device while driving will face a £200 fixed penalty notice and six points on their licence. The only exemption for this would be using the device to make an emergency phone call. Drivers will also remain exempt when using their phones to pay when at a drive-thru restaurant or toll road.
The Department of Transport said in a statement: “There will be an exemption to the new law for drivers making a contactless payment using their mobile phone while stationary to ensure the law keeps pace with technology.
“This exemption will cover, for example, places like a drive-through restaurant or a road toll, and will only apply when payment is being made with a card reader. It will not allow motorists to make general online payments while driving.”
Drivers will also still be allowed to use a device if it is ‘hands-free’ when driving. This includes ‘hands-free’ calls and the use of your phone as a sat-nav, as long as it is secured in a holder.
Keith Hawes, director of Nationwide Vehicle Contract, said: “The changes to mobile phone driving laws are vital to improving the safety of Britain's roads. Drivers must take these rules seriously to help reduce the number of tragic deaths caused by violations.
“It is not just mobile devices that drivers should be cautious of. Despite no new rules being enforced on the use of internal infotainment systems, they can be a potential distraction for drivers.
“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.“
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