Mobile phones and driving

It is illegal to use a mobile phone whilst driving.

The penalties are a £60 fine and three points on your licence. A driver can also be prosecuted for using a hands-free device if they are not in proper control of the vehicle. If the case goes to court the fine could rise to £1000 (£2500 for the driver of a bus, coach or heavy goods vehicle).

Other devices for sending or receiving data such as a PDA or Blackberry are also included if they are held while driving.

Employers can also be prosecuted if they require employees to make or receive calls while driving.

Are there any exceptions?

• A driver may call 999 or 112 in response to a genuine emergency.
• Two-way radios are not covered by this offence.

For further information follow the link on the right.