The issue over using your mobile phone whilst driving has been a much-discussed topic in the UK for a while now. While many motorists are still not deterred from using their phone while behind the wheel, it is widely considered dangerous due to the number of accidents which have been caused by drivers on phone.
Consequently, there are several strict and clear laws which make the use of mobile phones whilst driving illegal.
What does the law say?
The law currently states it’s illegal to use a hand-held phone or similar device whilst driving, even when stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.
Even if a crash doesn’t occur (and if it does, it can later be ruled as careless driving) you only have to be seen driving whilst using a phone to be stopped for breaking the law.
As of 1st March 2017, the standard punishment for breaking this particular law consists of a £200 fine and six penalty points added to the offender’s driving licence.
If this penalty is not accepted then the case can go to court where a heavier fine and even a driving disqualification can be imposed.
Can using a phone while driving ever be deemed acceptable?
In certain circumstances, using a phone whilst driving can be considered legal.
You can make a call with a hand-held phone whist driving if you ring 999 or 112 in a genuine emergency, provided it is unsafe or impractical to stop first.
Whilst using hand-held phones whilst driving is ruled illegal outside of an emergency, there are similar popular devices which are allowed. Hands-free phones, 2-way radios and phones operated via infotainment/satellite navigation system can all be used whilst driving a car or motorcycle.
Even under any these conditions though, it should be stressed that using a phone whilst driving can still prove incredibly dangerous. Furthermore, whilst it is legal to use certain phone devices behind the wheel, the police could still stop and penalise a driver if they are considered to be not in full control of a vehicle (due to being too distracted).
Not only that but if you’re involved in an accident whilst using a phone, hand-held or otherwise, it can jeopardise any subsequent car insurance claim.
Any British motorist then who considers using their phone whilst driving, in almost any circumstance, should consider whether it truly is worth it when weighed with the potential and severe consequences. After all, a safer and legal method can be considered at any time.
