Motorists and their companions are being warned about tough new mobile phone laws in the UK, which could land passengers with hefty fines for causing distractions.
The rules stipulated in the Highway Code on mobile phone use have been stringently updated, leading to potential £1,000 penalties for passengers deemed to be diverting the driver’s attention. Common knowledge dictates that drivers should not handle phones while on the road, but it is less known that passengers risk punishment if their actions lead to the driver losing focus on driving.
Warnings have come from experts at BigWantsYourCar.com, who emphasize the importance of everyone in the vehicle understanding these regulations to avoid fines and points on their licence.
Passenger fines for using phone
A spokesperson from BigWantsYourCar.com issued a stark reminder: “Most drivers are aware that touching a phone while driving is illegal, but many do not realise that passengers could also be fined. If a passenger’s phone use distracts the driver whether through loud notifications, videos, or conversation police can take action, and penalties can be severe.”
The Department for Transport insists that drivers must retain complete command of their vehicles constantly. Police will therefore levy fines or initiate prosecutions if they observe that a passenger’s phone use is causing the driver to be sidetracked.
Motorists who are supervising learner drivers need to be aware that they are subject to the same legal responsibilities as if they were the ones driving. “If you are in the passenger seat supervising a learner driver, you are legally treated as if you were behind the wheel. That means you cannot touch your phone at any point, or you risk a fine of up to £1,000 and six penalty points,” they emphasised.
This means that even seemingly minor actions such as checking a message, changing music tracks, or simply holding a mobile could lead to serious consequences.
Phone position warning
The warning extends to the placement of phones within the vehicle. Even when using hands-free devices, it’s crucial to ensure they do not block the driver’s view.
The law is clear that mobile phones must not be positioned on the dashboard or windscreen in a way that obstructs visibility.
“Positioning a phone on the dashboard or windscreen in a manner that hinders visibility can lead to a fine of £1,000 and three penalty points,” the expert further cautioned.
They added: “Drivers should ensure their mobile is securely mounted so it doesn’t impede their view of the road ahead.”
How both drivers and passengers can avoid a fine
To avoid falling foul of the law, BigWantsYourCar.com recommends all drivers and passengers strictly follow these guidelines:
- Keep all mobile phones securely mounted so they don’t block the driver’s view
- Drivers should set their sat nav before setting off and only adjust it when parked safely
- Do not play loud videos, music, or take calls that could distract the driver
- Avoid using a phone while supervising a learner driver
“The rules around mobile phone use are now stricter than ever. Even if you are a passenger, you could face fines or legal action if your phone use is deemed a distraction. Understanding these rules now can save motorists and their passengers from costly penalties,” they added.