Mobile Phones and Distracted Driving – the UK Laws

Despite research showing motorists are four times more likely to be involved in a road traffic accident if they are using a mobile phone, RAC research in 2017 reveals 23% of drivers admitted to using a mobile to make or take a call within the past year, and 18% to using their device for texting, email or social media while behind the wheel.

Any use of a handheld device, including map reading, is illegal unless the vehicle is safely parked or in exceptional circumstances such as the need to call 999 or 112. You can be prosecuted even if stationary at traffic lights or in a traffic jam. Even if your phone is in a holder or on the passenger seat you can still be prosecuted if it can be shown that you have been distracted. The law applies equally to those supervising learner drivers.

Those caught using a mobile device face a fine of £200 and six penalty points, which can lead to increased insurance premiums; If you find yourself facing such a situation, or if you feel there are grounds for disputing your arrest or the subsequent handling of your case by the police or prosecutors, then it is important to enlist professional, specialist legal advice as early as possible.

NGP motoring lawyers have over 25 years experience in defending clients charged with a wide range of driving offences.

For friendly, professional advice call us on 020 8309 5010 or see the contact page for other ways to get in touch. An initial discussion is free of charge and without obligation and it could make a vastly beneficial difference to the outcome of your case.