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| Mobile Phones - switch off, before you drive off | ||
 Useful links Highway Code THINK! Road Safety  |  | Even if you're a careful driver, it's easy to be distracted by a phone call or text message - and that split second lapse in concentration could result in a crash.  While hands-free equipment is not prohibited, the Department for Transport advice is that drivers should not use a mobile in the car at any time because using any mobile phone when driving has been scientifically proven to be distracting. Since 27th February 2007, legislation changed regarding the use of hand-held phones and you may now be fined £60 - although this can be increased to a maximum of £1,000 (£2,500 for drivers of lorries, buses and coaches) and receive three penalty points if the matter goes to court. This includes making or receiving calls, pictures, text messaging or accessing the Internet. If using your mobile, you must pull over to a safe location. Those who drive poorly as the result of distraction from a conversation on a hands-free phone continue to risk prosecution for not having proper control of a vehicle - this is a specific offence under Regulation 104 of the Road Vehicles Regulation 104 of the Road Vehicles Regulations 1986. Drive carelessly or dangerously when using any phone and the penalties can include disqualification, a large fine, and up to two years imprisonment. If you are an employer, you may also be prosecuted if you require your employees to use a hand-held mobile phone when driving.The only exception to the rule is when you need to call 999. Switch off before you drive off |
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