Mobile driving b&w

Mobile Phones

Discover the true dangers of using a mobile phone while driving.

In March 2017, the penalties for holding and using a mobile phone while driving increased. It’s now 6 points and £200.

But according to the RAC Report on Motoring 2017, 23% of drivers admitted to using a mobile phone while driving to make or take a call, while 12% admitted to checking texts, emails or social media. The unfortunate truth being that drivers, their passengers and other road users are suffering horrific injuries and dying needlessly.

Any second a driver’s attention is not on the road is a second that could cause a catastrophic accident. Even on familiar, short and slower journeys, the road should be given 100% of your attention, 100% of the time.

The reality

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Drivers using a hands-free or handheld phone are slower to recognise and react to hazards.

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You are four times more likely to be in a crash if you use your phone. Read research report.

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Your reaction times are two times slower if you text and drive than if you drink drive, and this increases to three times if you use a handheld phone. Read research report

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A split-second lapse in concentration can result in a crash.

Know your limits

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It’s illegal to use a handheld device when driving. This includes using your phone to follow a map, read a text or check social media.

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This applies even if you’re stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.

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It is also illegal to use a handheld phone or similar device when supervising a learner driver.

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You can only use a handheld phone if you are safely parked, or need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop.

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The consequences

Mobile phone usage penalties may include:

  • White tick icon If you’re caught using a handheld phone while driving, you’ll get 6 penalty points on your licence and a fine of £200. Points on your licence will result in higher insurance costs.
  • White tick icon If you get just 6 points in the first two years after passing your test, you will lose your licence.
  • White tick icon Using hands free (e.g. for navigation) is not illegal. However, if this distracts you and affects your ability to drive safely, you can still be prosecuted by the police.

What you should consider

Put your phone away before driving so you won’t be tempted to use it.

Make the glove compartment the phone compartment.

Don’t call other people when they’re driving.

Use hands free devices responsibly.

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