A new law that will prohibit drivers touching their phone when driving comes into force today.
A loop-hole that allowed drivers to dodge a £200 fine has been closed in Scotland and the rest of the UK. While speaking on a hand held mobile has been against the law since 2003, people were still able to touch the device for changing music, looking at the time or notifications.
Until now, drivers could only be fined for 'interactive communication' using a handheld device while driving unless it was an emergency. This changes today.
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As Hull Live reports, the Department for Transport reported 17 people were killed on British roads in crashes involving drivers distracted by mobile phones in 2020.
A further 114 people were seriously injured and 385 were slightly injured in such collisions.
Anyone caught using their hand-held device while driving, including changing music, will face a £200 fixed penalty notice and six points on their licence.
However, The Department of Transport has confirmed drivers will remain exempt when using their phones to pay when at a drive-thru restaurant or toll road. Phones can also be used in an emergency.
The Department of Transport said in a statement: “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.”
Drivers are also allowed to use a device if it is ‘hands-free’ when driving. This includes ‘hands-free’ calls and the use of your phone as a sat-nav, as long as it is secured in a holder.
Keith Hawes, director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, said: “The changes to mobile phone driving laws are vital to improving the safety of Britain's roads. Drivers must take these rules seriously to help reduce the number of tragic deaths caused by violations. It is not just mobile devices that drivers should be cautious of.
"Despite no new rules being enforced on the use of internal infotainment systems, they can be a potential distraction for drivers.
“Touchscreens have become a common addition to modern vehicles, and the more complex they become, the more distracting they can be. If you are found to be not properly in control of your vehicle as a result of using dashboard gadgets or hands-free devices you could still be prosecuted.“
