The Law and Mobile Phones

Mobile phones can be an essential means of communication away from the office or home and for motorists they can be an important security asset in the event of an emergency. However, using a mobile phone while driving can distract your attention from the road, and driving today requires all your concentration all of the time.

Drivers

It is unsafe for a driver to use a hand-held mobile phone. Making or receiving a call, even with a hands-free phone, can distract your attention from driving and could lead to an accident. Responsibility for the safe control of a vehicle always rests with the driver.

The law says...

You must have proper control of your vehicle at all times. If the use of a phone causes you to drive in a careless or dangerous manner you could be prosecuted for those offences. The penalties include an unlimited fine, disqualification and up to two years imprisonment.

And remember - its not just mobile phones. It can be just as dangerous to take your hand off the steering wheel and your eyes off the road for any reason not connected with driving, for example to change a tape.

Never use a hand - held phone whilst driving -

a.. You are not in full control of your vehicle if you are holding a mobile phone while driving. Doing so will risk the safety of yourself, your passengers and other road users.

b.. When you are driving, switch off your phone, use a message service or let a passenger make or answer a call

It is safer not to use a hands-free phone while driving -

a.. Conversations using hands-free equipment can distract your attention from the road.

b.. If you have to receive a call, say that you are driving and keep the conversation brief.

Use a message service and take regular breaks -

a.. To ensure the safety of yourself and other road users use voicemail or call divert so that messages can be left for you when the phone is switched off.

b.. Find a safe place to park in order to make a call or check for messages.

c.. On a long journey regular breaks will also help you to relax and reduce tiredness, but remember it is against the law to stop on the hard shoulder of a motorway except in an emergency.

Local officers will be looking out for offenders - you may be pulled over for some strong advice or end up in court.

Police advice: