Mobile Phone Laws are Getting Tougher!

27 February 2007

From 27 February 2007, the fixed penalty notice for using a hand held phone or similar hand held device while driving will be £60 and three penalty points on your licence.  Drivers can be prosecuted for careless driving and more serious offences if they crash because they were distracted by a phone call.  Commercial vehicle drivers using phones can be reported to the Traffic Commissioners.

Transport Minister Stephen Ladyman said:

"Research shows that talking on a mobile phone while driving affects your concentration and ability to react to dangerous situations.

"That is why in December 2003 we introduced new laws preventing motorists from driving while using a hand-held mobile. We have seen a groundswell of support for this move. But, worryingly, while 92% of people agree with the law, 21% of drivers admit to breaking it. That is why, from 27 February, the Road Safety Act will introduce a tougher fixed penalty of three points on your licence as well as a £60 fine."

Police have committed to prosecute anyone caught using their phone to talk, send texts, take pictures or access the internet while driving - including when stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.

Home Office figures for 2004 show that nearly 74,000 fixed penalty notices were issued for illegal use of a mobile phone while driving. The Department for Transport continues to work closely with private partners, including the mobile phone industry, to ensure mobile phone users are made aware of the changes and how it affects them.

For more information visit: www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk

To view TRL Ltd's report for Direct Line Insurance demonstrating the risks of using a mobile phone whilst driving Click here