New Mobile Phone Driving Laws Introduced
New laws have come into force that makes it illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving under almost any circumstances.
The rules became law on Friday 25th March, and drivers will now be breaking the law if they use a handheld mobile phone while driving for any reason – including taking videos and photos, playing games, or choosing music playlists.
Any driver caught using a mobile device while driving faces a maximum fine of £1,000 and six points on their licence, with the punishment even being able to extend to a driving ban.
Fleet owners are now being urged to ensure that ALL drivers are aware of the changes…
Are Drivers Aware Of The New Mobile Phone Laws While Driving?
Recent research found that many drivers aren’t aware of the changes to the law, with 42% not aware that legislation had changed around mobile phone use while driving.
And of those that did realise the law was changing, 5% didn’t think the rules would take effect for another six months.
Most drivers are supportive of the changes to the law, with many recognising that the previous rules around mobile phone use while driving didn’t reflect the changing technology and the way we use our phones.
When the ban on the use of mobile phones while driving first came into force, phones were primarily used for making phone calls and sending text messages.
But in the 19 years since the original law was introduced in 2003, technology has developed rapidly, and we now use mobile phones for navigation, playing music, playing games, social media, and well, pretty much everything.
How Will The Rules Be Enforced?
However, 45% of drivers who were polled said that they don’t believe the new rules will be effective, citing that they expect drivers to break the rules…
In fact, 86% of people believe that the main concern around the rules is that people won’t pay attention and will continue to use their mobile phones regardless of the law.
There’s also some concern over how the new law will be enforced, with 70% of people worried that drivers aren’t likely to get caught breaking the mobile phone driving laws.
The government is planning an awareness campaign around the dangers of using a handheld phone at the wheel, including the penalties for ignoring the new law.
The campaign is set to run across social media, on-demand services, and radio in England and Wales throughout April, focusing on ensuring drivers are aware of the changes to the law.
There are some exceptions, however…
Drivers will be allowed to make contactless payments at drive-thrus and toll booths, and you’ll still be able to use a mobile device as long as it’s hands-free.
That means a device can be used as a sat-nav or to play playlists, so long as it’s set up before driving and then only used hands-free.
Crucially, though, drivers MUST take responsibility for their driving and can be charged with an offence if police find they aren’t in proper control of their vehicle.
CLICK HERE to read more on the new laws around mobile phone use while driving
What do you think of the new mobile driving laws? Are you and your drivers aware of the changes? Let us know in the comments below.
