The UK government will strengthen laws that will make it illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in virtually all circumstances.
It's already an offense to use a cell phone to make a call or text while driving, but until now there were no specific provisions for other cases, such as checking a map app or selecting a playlist.
A public consultation found that four-fifths (81%) of people were in favor of a measure to tighten regulations and take into account the development of technology and changing consumer behaviour.
cell phone while driving
Starting next year, drivers will be banned from carrying their device to take photos, play games or change the sound. If caught, they face a €200 flat-rate fine and six penalty points on their driver's license. The Highway Code will be updated to make it clear that the law considers sitting in a traffic jam to be driving and therefore the new laws also apply to stopping.
Mobile phones can still be used while driving, as long as they are secured in a base and therefore can be used "hands-free". This means drivers can still use cards and accept calls as long as they don't pick up their phones.
Other exceptions include contactless payments, which allow drivers to use their device to pay for tolls or meals while driving. The law already provides for phone calls while driving in an emergency.
"Too many deaths and injuries occur while mobile phones are being held," Transportation Secretary Grant Shapps said. “By making it easier to prosecute people who illegally use their phones while driving, we are ensuring that the law enters the XNUMXst century while further protecting all road users.
“While our roads remain among the safest in the world, we will continue to work tirelessly to make them safer, including through our award-winning THINK system! campaign, which challenges social norms among high-risk drivers.
Both Apple and Android have developed in-car platforms that allow drivers to use various smartphone apps, such as music, maps, and calls, on their vehicle screens. Meanwhile, cradles that allow mobile phones to be safely placed have been available for some time.
Here are our best car phone mounts to keep you safe while driving