So by now we are all aware of the increased penalties for using your mobile phone or Sat Nav while driving..right?

Well in June 2018 The BBC reported that nearly two-thirds of UK motorists were still unaware of the increased penalties and laws regarding using a handheld phone while operating a vehicle. 

In fact, research conducted by Nextbase revealed that over eight million UK drivers still risk landing a £200 fine and six penalty points on their driving licence for committing the offence. For a new driver this is an instant driving ban!

There are a number of reasons concerning the safety of motorists, other road users and pedestrians that prompted the increased penalties. Road accidents are much more likely to occur when drivers are distracted. 

Additionally, for many motorists such as couriers, taxi and bus drivers, the new penalties could result in a driving ban which means no work and therefore no income.

So to keep our roads safe and our driving licences clean here are the do’s and don’ts issued by the British Government. 

It’s always better to be safe rather than sorry....

 Know the Facts

It’s illegal to hold a phone or sat nav while driving or riding a motorcycle. You must have hands-free access, such as:

• a bluetooth headset
• voice command
• a dashboard holder or mat
• a windscreen mount
• a built-in sat nav

The device must not block your view of the road and traffic ahead.

You must stay in full control of your vehicle at all times. The police can stop you if they think you’re not in control because you’re distracted and you can be prosecuted.

The law still applies to you if you’re:

• stopped at traffic lights
• queuing in traffic
• supervising a learner driver

When you can use a hand-held phone

You can use a hand-held phone if either of these apply:

• you’re safely parked
• you need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop

Penalties

You can get 6 penalty points and a £200 fine if you use a hand-held phone when driving. You’ll also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last 2 years.

You can get 3 penalty points if you don’t have a full view of the road and traffic ahead or proper control of the vehicle.

You can also be taken to court where you can:

• be banned from driving or riding
• get a maximum fine of £1,000 (£2,500 if you’re driving a lorry or bus)