Wed Mar 1, 2017 | By: Sara Orritt
From 1 March 2017, the penalties for using a hand-held mobile phone while driving will increase to 6 points on your licence and a £200 fine.
THINK! has launched a new campaign encouraging drivers to put their phone in the glove compartment while driving to avoid temptation.
The Law:
- It's illegal to use a handheld mobile when driving. This includes using your phone to follow a map, read a text or check social media.
- The law applies even if you’re stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.
- 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.
- 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.)
- If you get just 6 points in the first two years after passing your test, you will lose your licence.
- 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.
Be Safe:
- Ask for a vehicle which features Bluetooth Connectivity
- Ask a member of our staff for help connecting your phone to the bluetooth at hand-over
- Enquire about our range of cars and vans that feature Satellite Navigation
- Keep your phone in a place where you can't reach it and won't be tempted to use it.
Our thanks to the DVSA and Think! for highlighting this important information.