Mobile phone laws have changed in the UK in a bid to reduce the amount of accidents.
The fine for being caught is now £200, up from £100, and six penalty points.
On top of this, if you are caught using a device within two years of first receiving your licence, you will face an immediate ban.
You will then be required to reapply for your provisional license and pass both the theory and practical driving tests.
If your case goes to court, you could face disqualification and up to a £1,000 fine. HGV and bus drivers could face an even bigger £2,500 fine.
However, many car companies are now including smartphone integration into their car.
Systems such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are featuring in a lot of new cars which allow drivers to use their smartphone’s apps while driving.
Concerns have arisen about whether or not using these services could see you being fined.
The new rule states that drivers are forbidden from touching or picking up their phone while driving.
A hands-free device is permitted but police still have the authority to pull you over if they believe you are big distracted.
The new law also states that if you are using your phone to follow a map or find out directions, it must be mounted to mobile phone holder.
It is illegal to hold the phone for map directions. Checking social media and texting is also not permitted, even in stationary traffic.
If you want to check your phone you must pull over where is safe, legal and convenient ad switch off your engine.
The only time using mobile phone may be allowed is to call 999 or 112 in an emergency when pulling over or stopping would be unsafe or unpractical.
So if you are using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, plug in your phone before you leave and don’t touch it until you stop.
Remember that if you are distracted by the infotainment system then you may still be pulled over by the authorities.
0 comments: