The law and mobile phones
Mobile phones: the only safe way to use one
It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving.
From 27 February 2007, there is a fixed penalty fine of £60 and three penalty point licence endorsement.
If you need your drivers to use a mobile while driving then it should be hands-free – typically a vehicle-integrated unit or a Bluetooth-integrated phone with earpiece.
What are the penalties?
- £60 fine and three penalty points
- £1000 fine if the case goes to court
- £2500 fine for drivers of a bus, coach, or heavy goods vehicle if the case goes to court
- Employers can be prosecuted for requiring employees to make or receive calls while driving
- Drivers whose conduct is deemed unsafe because of using a hand-held phone could face prosecution for dangerous driving. This carries a maximum two-year sentence.
Research by Brake has shown that using any type of phone – handheld or hands-free – increases the risk of a crash.
Brake suggests companies might wish to follow these guidelines:
- Put your phone on message
- Change message to include 'I may be driving'
- Take regular breaks - and retrieve messages then
- Manage your time to reduce need for calls while driving
Further information
Visit the Department of Transport’s THINK! Road Safety website at www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk.
