By Changes announced for mobile use while driving
Regulations for using a mobile phone when behind a wheel have been tightened as even checking the time is now illegal.
From today (25 March), a new “zero-tolerance approach” has been adopted by the government to prevent mobile device usage when driving.
People can now be fined up to £1,000 and receive six points on their licence for scrolling through playlists or taking pictures on a handheld device.
Devices can still be used hands-free while driving if secured in a cradle.
The law change is an extension of an existing offence which includes making phone calls or sending text messages.
Back in July 2019, a man overturned a conviction for filming a crash saying he was not using his phone “to communicate”.
Following that ruling, two High Court judges criticised the law on using phones while driving as it had failed to evolve with the rise of technology.
Department for Transport (DfT) figures show 17 people were killed and a further 114 were seriously injured in crashes on roads in which a driver using a mobile was a contributory factor.
The DfT said drivers can use their phones to make contactless payments at a drive-through restaurant if the vehicle is stationary.
Mr Shapps said: “I will do everything in my power to keep road users safe, which is why I am taking a zero-tolerance approach to those who decide to risk lives by using their phone behind the wheel.
“I’m ensuring anyone who chooses to break this vital law can face punishment for doing so, and we’ll continue our efforts to ensure our roads remain among the safest in the world.”
Here are the activities which are now offences:
- Checking the time
- Checking notifications
- Unlocking a device
- Making, receiving or rejecting a telephone or internet-based call
- Sending, receiving or uploading oral or written content
- Sending, receiving or uploading a photo or video
- Utilising camera, video or sound recording functionality
- Illuminating the screen
- Drafting any text
- Acessing an application
- Accessing the internet
- Accessing any stored data such as documents, books, audio files, photos, videos, films, playlists, notes or messages
