Mobile phone

Mobile phones are an increasing necessity in modern society and the pressures of modern life mean that we want to stay in touch, even whilst driving.

However, the use of any hand held mobile phone or similar handheld communication device while driving is now prohibited and as from 27 February 2007 attracts 3 penalty points and a fine the level of which will depend on whether or not you were driving a vehicle intending to carry 8 or more passengers at the time of the offence. See the link below for more information about this offence:

Government Think Road Safety Website

The offence is committed even when the quality of your driving is not affected. If your driving is affected whilst using a mobile phone, you could face prosecution for more serious charges of careless or dangerous driving [ link].

A mobile phone can be used whilst driving in conjunction with a 'hands free' kit provided that the phone can be operated without holding it.

The law does not only apply to mobile phones, but also applies to any similar device that is hand held such as a "blackberry" device or navigation equipment and other computer equipment.

The only permissible defence to the above law arises if a person uses a hand held mobile phone to contact emergency services (999 or 112) in a genuine emergency and when it is impracticable to stop.

At all other times (even while sat in a traffic jam) an offence will be committed.

Punishment

A fine of up to £1000 if driving a normal vehicle and £2500 if driving a vehicle adapted to carry 8 or more passengers and 3 penalty points

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