Major Crackdown on Handheld Phone Use Behind the Wheel
Motorists across the UK are being warned of a significant increase in police enforcement targeting the illegal use of handheld mobile phones while driving. This major crackdown puts drivers at direct risk of a £200 fine and 6 penalty points on their licence if caught.
Gary Digva, a spokesperson for the road safety organisation Road Angel, has stressed that officers are now “enforcing mobile phone rules more than ever.” He highlighted the dangers of misinformation circulating online, which is creating confusion for many drivers.
Debunking Widespread Myths and Confusion
Gary explained to the Express that social media is partly to blame for the problem. “Social media can be a great place for car content – but it’s also full of myths,” he said. “We saw loads of posts earlier this year talking about ‘new mobile phone laws’ that simply don’t exist. The result? Even more confusion for drivers who think they’re doing the right thing.”
He clarified that the core law itself has not recently changed, but the approach to enforcing it has intensified dramatically. “The truth is simple: the law hasn’t changed, but the risks have. The police are enforcing this more than ever, and the penalties can haunt you long after Halloween. Don’t be a pumpkin – keep your hands on the wheel, not your phone.”
Understanding the Law and Its Serious Consequences
The rules are clear and carry severe penalties. It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone or similar device in the following situations:
- While driving.
- When stopped at traffic lights.
- While queuing in traffic.
The immediate punishment is a £200 fine and 6 penalty points. These points can lead to substantially higher car insurance premiums. The risks are even greater for newly qualified drivers; they will lose their licence if they accumulate 6 or more penalty points within two years of passing their test.
It is also illegal to use a hand-held phone when supervising a learner driver. Furthermore, you can be prosecuted for using a hands-free device if it distracts you and means you are not in proper control of the vehicle, with the same penalties applying.
In the most serious cases, if you are found to be driving carelessly or dangerously while using any phone, you could face disqualification, an unlimited fine, and even a prison sentence of up to two years. Employers should also be aware that they can be prosecuted if their employees are required to use a phone while driving and become distracted.
Gary Digva concluded with a sobering reminder: “Our mission is to make Britain’s roads safer, not scarier. If your tech helps you see hazards and stay within the law, great – just don’t let it become another distraction.”
