Motorists could be slapped with a fine of up to £200 for making one mistake while behind the wheel this Sunday. The Government’s Emergency Alert System notification will sound for another test at 3pm on Sunday.
According to officials, most mobile phones and tablets across the UK will receive the message. This will be accompanied by a loud siren-like sound and vibration which is expected to last for about 10 seconds. However, frustrated motorists who touch their phone while driving in a desperate bid to cancel the message will be breaking the rules – and could be fined if caught out.
Graham Conway, a spokesperson for Select Car Leasing, urged drivers to remember the rules of the road ahead of the latest alert.
He said: “The government’s emergency alert system is a vital tool in letting people know if there is a life-threatening danger nearby. It’s important that tests are carried out to ensure the system works as it should.
“But the rules of the road still stand. Motorists who are driving at the time of the test, at 3pm [this] Sunday, should not read or respond to the alert as it’s illegal to use a mobile while driving.
“If you are caught using your device while driving it could mean a fine of £200 and six points on your licence.”
MoneySavingExpert has also urged drivers not to be tempted to touch their device if they hear the alert.
They stressed: “It’s illegal to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send or receive data, while driving or riding a motorcycle.
“When the alert goes off, don’t pick up your phone if you’re driving, as you could endanger yourself or any passengers, risk getting six penalty points and a £200 fine. The alert should stop by itself within a few seconds.”
Speaking to the Daily Express, National Highways told drivers not to pick up their phone or attempt to deal with the message while behind the wheel. Instead, motorists have been told to continue driving as normal and stay in full control of a vehicle at all times.
AA president Edmund King said: “We support the testing of the Emergency Alerts system, which is an important tool the government uses to keep people safe in a crisis.
“On the day, drivers should simply stay calm and focus on the road. As always, only check your phone when you’re parked safely with the engine turned off.”
