Road safety and mobile phones

Missing a phone call won’t kill you.

Even if you are a careful driver you will be not be in proper control of your vehicle if using a hand-held mobile phone. Therefore it's better to turn your phone off when you’re driving. If you have to use your phone – find a safe place to stop first.

You should never use a hand held mobile phone while driving.  Using hands-free equipment is also likely to distract your attention from driving and you can still be prosecuted if you are not in proper control of your car.

It’s far safer not to use any phone when you’re driving.

Driving requires all of your concentration and you should avoid all unnecessary distractions.

Being distracted by a phone call or text message will affect your concentration and anticipation.

Research has shown that using mobile phones while driving slows reaction times by 50% (compared to normal driving).

Changes to the law

• From the 27th February 2007 drivers will be fined £60 and be given 3 penalty points on their licence if caught driving while using a hand-held mobile phone.  The £30 fixed penalty can be increased to a maximum fine of £1000 if the matter goes to court (£2,500 for drivers of lorries and buses).
• Drivers using hands-free devices may be prosecuted if they fail to maintain proper control of their vehicle, or drive carelessly or dangerously while using it.
• Employers may also be prosecuted if they require their employees to make or receive calls using a hand-held mobile phone whilst driving.

For more details and answers to frequently asked questions visit www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk/advice/mobilephones.htm