It’s important to understand that when it comes to using a mobile phone whilst driving, the law applies to physically touching your phone whilst the vehicle’s engine is running. This includes being stopped at traffic lights as well as when moving. It also applies to other handheld devices as well as mobile phones.
The Penalties
If you are caught driving whilst using a hand held mobile phone or device, then you will get 3 penalty points and a fixed fine of £100. In some cases you may also be taken to court where you can be banned from driving for a set term, which will be decided by the court. If you are banned for more than 56 days then you will have to take your driving test again before you will be allowed to drive. You can also get a maximum fine of £1,000. If you are a heavy goods vehicle driver or a bus driver, the maximum fine is higher, up to £2,500.
Alternatives to touching your phone
There are many ways in which you can avoid getting into trouble whilst driving, these include hands free calling systems that can be installed in vehicles, the use of Bluetooth headsets and voice commands.
