The new printed Highway code includes major changes to the rules around using your mobile phone and the length of sentence you can get for committing a driving offence.
The latest edition hit the shelves today and it includes longer prison sentences and harsher phone rules.
The new rules around mobile phones state drivers must not use a hand-held mobile phone device or any device similar. This includes messaging on a smartwatch or using a tablet. The code also states drivers cannot dial a phone number while driving and place it in the cradle while on the phone.
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For provisional drivers the same rules apply to them and their tutors. Anyone supervising a learner driver is also not allowed to go on their hand-held devices. These rules apply at all times, which includes waiting for traffic lights unless it is a 'genuine emergency' and a driver needs to call 999.
The only other exception is when using a hand-held device to make a contactless payment. The car must be stationary and the services/ goods must be received at the same time or just after. This includes drive-through food and coffee services.
Using a hand-held device can get you three points on your license, £1,000 fine and you could be disqualified from driving.
The sentencing and penalties for driving offences have also been updated in the new print edition. Here are some of the new penalties :
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Causing death by dangerous driving: Life imprisonment / Unlimited fine / Obligatory - 5 years minimum
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Dangerous driving: two years imprisonment / Unlimited fine / Obligatory - disqualification
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Causing death by careless driving under the influence of drink or drugs: Life imprisonment / Unlimited fine / Obligatory - 5 years minimum
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Careless and inconsiderate driving: Unlimited fine / Discretionary disqualification
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Driving while unfit through drink or drugs or with excess alcohol: 6 months’ imprisonment / Unlimited fine / Obligatory disqualification
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Failing to stop after an accident or failing to report an accident: 6 months’ imprisonment / Unlimited fine / Discretionary disqualification
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Seat belt offences: £500 fine
There are also rule changes around self-driving vehicles. While a self-driving vehicle is driving itself in a valid situation, you are not responsible for how it drives. You may turn your attention away from the road and you may also view content through the vehicle’s built-in infotainment system.
Despite this freedom set out in the Highway Code you must be fit to drive and not be drunk or under the influence of drugs. The vehicle must also be MOT'd, taxed and insured and you cannot do anything which would be illegal in a non-self-driving car. This includes going on your phone.
Drivers must also stay awake during their journey. You can check if your vehicle is considered 'self-driving' here.
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