Mobile phone driving laws

Using your mobile phone behind the wheel is incredibly illegal - despite this, recent reports state that mobile phone use whilst driving is still the 2nd biggest concern for motorists. Three in ten drivers admitted to writing texts, emails or even posting on social media whilst their engine was still on - however, UK law states that it is illegal to use a handheld device behind the wheel. Even if your car is stationary, you are not permitted to use your phone. Instead, you must park in a safe place and only then can you use your mobile.

So, what are the laws surrounding mobile phone use whilst driving?

Using a handheld device behind the wheel is illegal, and you can only use your mobile phone if the device is handsfree. There are so many ways in which you can use your mobile in a handsfree manner - for instance, you are permitted to use a phone stand for your device, but you must set up your device before you start driving and you must only operate it using voice controls or built-in steering wheel functions. Most cars will have a handsfree device built into the dashboard, which allows you to answer your phone by a pressing button on your steering wheel - or, alternatively, you can use Bluetooth handsfree earphones.

There are only two times in which it is appropriate to use your handheld device:

• The first is in an emergency situation, when you need to dial 999 and there is no safe place to stop.
• The second, is when you are safely parked and your engine is off - however, this does not warrant you to use your phone if you are at a standstill in traffic.

Using a mobile satnav whilst driving

You may think adjusting your sat nav is a reasonable explanation for using your mobile whilst driving - however, this is not the case. You must set up your sat nav before you set off on the road, and you can only adjust it when you are safely parked.

Penalties for using a mobile phone while driving

Failure to comply with these laws could result in a £200 fine, or, if this a repeated offence, you could gain six points on your licence. Motorists who have been driving for less than 2 years could even lose their licence altogether.

Driving whilst using technology is incredibly dangerous, which is why some reports have called for banning the use of hands-free devices altogether. However, this has not been implemented in any UK law as of yet. Despite this, the police still posses the power to stop you if they believe you are being distracted by your hands-free device.

How can I limit my phone use while driving?

If it is necessary you keep in touch with someone on your car journey, then you must set up a hands-free device. The best way to avoid distraction altogether is to switch your phone off when driving, as no notification is worth risking an accident. There are also apps you can download on both IOS and android devices to stop you from being tempted to check your phone.

Read more about the laws surrounding mobile use and driving on the government website, or if want to find out more about any motor related advice check out our helpful blog. For any other car related queries, do not hesitate to contact our team.