Motorists are being warned that using their mobile phone while driving could land them in hot water. Official guidelines state that drivers caught using a hand-held device can face six penalty points and a £200 fine.
Those who have held their licence for less than two years could also lose it, forcing them to reapply and retake their test. Drivers can receive three penalty points if a handheld device obstructs their view of the road or hinders vehicle control.
Moreover, they could be taken to court, potentially receiving a driving ban and a fine of up to £2,500, depending on the vehicle used. Rule 149 of the Highway Code states: “You MUST exercise proper control of your vehicle at all times. You MUST NOT use a hand-held mobile phone, or similar device, capable of interactive communication (such as a tablet) for any purpose when driving or when supervising a learner driver.”
The rule applies to all ‘hand-held interactive communication’ devices, even if they are switched off or unavailable.
It continues: “You MUST NOT pick up the phone or similar device while driving to dial a number and then put it in the cradle for the duration of the conversation. You MUST NOT pick up and use your hand-held phone or similar device while stationary in traffic.”
However, the Highway Code does acknowledge that there are exceptions to the rule of using a handheld device while driving. Specifically, if you find yourself in a genuine emergency situation where it is unsafe or impractical to stop your vehicle, you are permitted to call 999 or 112.
There are other exceptions as well, but they come with strict criteria that must be adhered to. For instance, a driver can use a hand-held mobile phone or similar device to make a contactless payment, provided the vehicle is stationary at the time and all goods paid for are received simultaneously with or after the contactless payment is made.
Additionally, a handheld remote control app or device can be used, provided it’s legal, the vehicle is parked, and no other drivers or pedestrians are endangered while using it. It’s crucial to remember that laws regarding mobile usage still apply if you’re: holding and using a device that’s offline or in flight mode, driving a car that turns off the engine when you stop moving, stopped at traffic lights, queuing in traffic, or supervising a learner driver.
