Under the new rules, drivers cannot use their mobile phones behind the wheel- apart from in certain circumstances when the car is likely to be stationary.
Driving safely on the roads should always be a driver’s main priority and new highway code law is due to ensure that this is no longer compromised due to use of mobile phones.
In 2018 alone, cell phone driving accidents caused at least 33 deaths on the road. Now, new rules mean that drivers will not be able to use their mobile phones at all whilst driving.
The tougher rules are hoping to close numerous loopholes in the law and will see the laws change to instead give out £200 penalty to anyone who as much as touches their mobile whilst driving.
At present, it is only illegal to text or call whilst driving but thanks to new rules to be brought in on Friday 1 April, the rules will extend far further than the original “interactive communication function” rules brought in back in 2019.
It will be illegal to use your phone when at the traffic lights and the car is stationary, to take photos or videos, access playlists or use any apps behind the wheel. This will still include a ban on calls or texts, whilst making the use of any other use of mobile phones illegal.
The Mirror has also speculated that passengers can also face fines if on their mobile whilst the car is driving if they’re riding with a learner driver. Breaking this new rule could result in six points and £1000 fine.
The only exemption when drivers can use their mobile phones whilst in the driver’s seat will now be to pay at a drive-thru restaurant or a toll bridge.
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Examiner Live also report that hands-free devices can be used when driving including taking calls or using a satnav, but only if it is secured in a holder.
The new rules will come into force from Friday 1 April 2022.
Feature Image- Alexandre Boucher, Unsplash
