Motorists have been warned that a bad habit that is unfortunately far too common could result in a stiff fine of £1,000. Checking your phone while sitting at the traffic lights or stuck in congestion is punishable by the law.
According to Gov.uk, using your mobile phone or sat nav while not fully “safely parked” could see them given a fine of up to £1,000 and a ban from driving.
It’s actually against the law to hold and operate a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any data transmitting or receiving device while driving or riding a motorcycle.
Consequently, you must not use a handheld device for any purpose, regardless of whether it’s connected to the internet or not. This ban extends to texting, making calls, capturing photos or videos, or surfing the internet.
A common misconception is that this law doesn’t apply when stopped at traffic lights, but this is incorrect.
The law applies even if you’re:
- Stuck in a traffic jam
- Supervising a learner driver
- Operating a vehicle that automatically switches off the engine when stationary
- Holding and using a device that’s offline or in flight mode
If found guilty of any of the above, you could face six penalty points on your licence and a fine of £200. The repercussions are more severe for novice drivers. If you have passed your driving test within the last two years, you risk losing your licence.
In certain cases, you may also be summoned to court where you can:
- Face a driving or riding ban
- Receive a maximum fine of £1,000 (£2,500 if you’re operating a lorry or bus)
Exceptions
There are some exceptions to these rules. You are permitted to use a handheld device if:
- You need to dial 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop
- You’re safely parked
- You’re making a contactless payment in a stationary vehicle, such as at a drive-through restaurant
- You’re using the device to remotely park your vehicle.
You are also permitted to use devices offering hands-free functionality, provided you refrain from physically holding them at any point.
The hands-free options are:
- A Bluetooth headset
- A voice command system
- A dashboard-mounted holder or mat
- A windscreen-mounted device
- A built-in satellite navigation system
It is essential, however, that the device does not obstruct your line of sight of the road and oncoming traffic.
According to the Government’s website: “You must stay in full control of your vehicle at all times.
“The police can stop you if they think you’re not in control because you’re distracted and you can be prosecuted.”
