Drivers in Northern Ireland could soon face a complete ban on touching their mobile phones for any purpose while behind the wheel. This represents the most significant proposed change to the region's mobile phone driving laws since they were first introduced in 2004.
Sweeping New Plans to Target Modern Distractions
The major legal shake-up forms part of wide-ranging new road safety plans put forward by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins. The minister stated that the existing legislation must evolve to match contemporary technology use.
"Use of mobile technology has changed, and we now need to target those individuals who think it is okay to take photos, videos or scroll on their phone while they are driving a vehicle," Kimmins explained. She emphasised that driving demands a motorist's full attention, and a momentary lapse can lead to lifelong consequences.
The current offence, which has been illegal since 2004, attracts a £200 fine and six penalty points. Minister Kimmins highlighted that inattention is a leading factor in most collisions resulting in death or serious injury, making road safety a critical priority.
Police Back Law as Part of "Fatal Five" Crackdown
Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) strongly endorsed the proposed changes. He classified mobile phone use at the wheel as one of the notorious "Fatal Five" primary causes of road deaths.
"The harsh reality is that a moment's distraction, taking your eye off the road to look at your phone, or to use your phone while driving, can end in tragedy," Donaldson warned.
In a related crackdown on impaired driving, police revealed concerning data from a new drug-testing pilot. Since August 2024, officers have conducted approximately 150 Drugwipe tests, with 79 returning positive for cannabis and/or cocaine.
"These figures evidence that when the circumstance allow for officers to conduct a drugs wipe test there is approximately a 50 per cent positive return rate, which is really concerning," Chief Superintendent Donaldson stated. The equipment supplements existing Preliminary Impairment Tests.
Broader Enforcement and a Plea for Responsibility
The police confirmed that every driver stopped for any moving traffic offence can expect to be breathalysed. Anyone involved in a collision or suspected of consuming alcohol or drugs will also be tested.
The PSNI is supporting the Department of Infrastructure's anti-drug driving campaign, appealing directly to motorists to make safe choices. Minister Kimmins concluded with a powerful message for all road users, stressing personal responsibility.
"We all have a personal responsibility to behave in a way that keeps ourselves and others safe. Holding and using a mobile phone for any purpose while driving should not be an option for a driver using our roads," she asserted.
