A warning has been issued to drivers as a new mobile phone law comes into force today.
Before now (Friday, March 25), motorists have only been penalised for using a hand-held device while driving for "interactive communication". This means motorists have not be fined for touching the device to check the time, put some music on or take a photo.
However, the new regulation on March 25 will close the loophole, and any drivers caught handling their mobile phone behind the wheel could face a £200 fixed penalty notice and six points on their licence. This also includes being stationary in traffic, such as at traffic lights or motorway queues - and drivers are only exempt from the new rule if they are making an emergency call.
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The director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts warned the new law must be taken seriously by motorists.
Keith Hawes added: "The changes to mobile phone driving laws are vital to improving the safety of Britain's roads. Drivers must take these rules seriously to help reduce the number of tragic deaths caused by violations. As the world evolves, these adaptations to driving laws are important to keep up-to-date with how technology is used by motorists. We hope these penalties are a strong deterrent to drivers who use their mobile phones behind the wheel.
"It is not just mobile devices that drivers should be cautious of. Despite no new rules being enforced on the use of internal infotainment systems, they can be a potential distraction for drivers. Touchscreens have become a common addition to modern vehicles, and the more complex they become, the more distracting they can be. If you are found to be not properly in control of your vehicle as a result of using dashboard gadgets or hands-free devices you could still be prosecuted.“
Drivers are still able to use a device if it is ‘hands-free’ when driving. This includes ‘hands-free’ calls and the use of your phone as a sat-nav, as long as it is secured in a holder. The change was confirmed by the Department of Transport last year, who clarified drivers can still use their phone to make a contactless payment at a drive-thru restaurant or toll road.
A statement said: "There will be an exemption to the new law for drivers making a contactless payment using their mobile phone while stationary to ensure the law keeps pace with technology. This exemption will cover, for example, places like a drive-through restaurant or a road toll, and will only apply when payment is being made with a card reader. It will not allow motorists to make general online payments while driving."
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