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The law means there’s a ban on using handheld phones or sat navs while driving or riding a motorbike. That also includes similar devices like tablets. A handheld device is defined as something that "is or must be held at some point during the course of making or receiving a call or performing any other interactive communication function".
What aren’t you allowed to do? The ban on using hand-held devices while driving includes: Using your device to navigate
The law still applies to you if you’re: It applies even if you have an automatic stop-start and the engine's cut out briefly.
How to use your phone safely on the road If you need to use a handheld phone The Highway Code (239) says that you must switch off your engine if you stop on the roadside. Turning the engine off will avoid any doubt that you’re still driving and it's better for the environment too
What are the penalties for using a mobile while driving? That’s not the case for using hands-free phones. You’ll only get a penalty if it’s decided you weren't in control of the vehicle.
Instead of a Fixed Penalty Notice, you could be taken to court if: You refuse to accept the fixed penalty. The police think the offence is so bad that a fixed penalty isn’t enough.
Discretionary disqualification Penalties for causing an accident while using a phone If your driving’s bad, or if there’s a crash while you’re using the phone, you could be prosecuted for: If a death’s caused, fines can be much greater and prison's almost certain.
Penalties for employers Your employer may be open to prosecution if: You drive dangerously because you're using a phone installed by your employer.
Penalties for cyclists It's not a specific offence to cycle and use a handheld mobile phone. But you could be prosecuted for careless or dangerous cycling if it distracts you.
Are there any exemptions? You’re allowed to use a handheld device under exceptional circumstances: You can make an emergency call to 999 or 112 only if it’s unsafe or impractical to stop first. You can use a two-way radio but not any other device that sends or receives data. | ||||
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