The official Highway Code book (PA)
(Picture: PA Archive)Drivers could be handed a heavy fine as new Highway Code rules around mobile phone use in cars came into effect on Friday.
Grey areas have been cleared by the Department of Transport, with stricter rules around smartphone use – as passengers supervising journeys are in danger of fines too.
The Highway Code, that applies in England, Scotland and Wales, has implemented rules with only a few exceptions.
What are the new Highway Code rules for driving while using a mobile phone?
Drivers who touch a phone screen or tablet while behind the wheel could face a fine of up to £1,000 and six penalty points on their driving licence or a full driving ban.
Phone use at traffic lights or in motorway queues will also be seen as illegal under new Highway Code rules.
It is also outlined in the new rules that motorists cannot handle their device to dial numbers followed by using handsfree functions to conduct calls while driving.
This means motorists must not pick up a phone or similar device while driving to dial a number and then put it back in its cradle for the duration of the conversation.
One exception to this rule is in genuine emergencies to call 999 or 112 when a driver cannot stop and pull over safely.
The handsfree function may be used alone when driving including taking calls or using a satnav, but only if it is secured in something which holds it.
Motorists may also use phones to pay at toll bridges and drive-thru restaurants.
The Department of Transport said: “There will be an exemption to the new law for drivers making a contactless payment using their mobile phone while stationary to ensure the law keeps pace with technology.
“This exemption will cover, for example, places like a drive-through restaurant or a road toll, and will only apply when payment is being made with a card reader. It will not allow motorists to make general online payments while driving.”
The law also applies to those that are supervising learner drivers.
What else can’t you do with your phone?
Existing rules make it illegal to use a mobile phone behind the wheel for communication – which includes texting and calling.
The High Court ruled in 2019 that it was an offence if a phone was used for an “interaction communication function”.
The new rules now clarify the ban on further uses of handheld devices, such as loading playlists or scrolling through searches.
Drivers are permitted to park their vehicle using a handheld remote control app or device, but the app or device must be legal and should not put other people in danger.
The Highway Code was updated in January to prioritise pedestrians over motorists in the new “priority of road users”.
