UK drivers hit with six points and £200 fine over | Tech News

UK drivers have been given a sturdy warning about a widespread however unlawful behavior that many imagine is innocent. Despite the dangers, motoring specialists say the behaviour is especially common amongst one age group. RAC Drive specialists report a worrying increase in drivers admitting to utilizing handheld cell phones to make or obtain calls whereas driving. In a examine, some stated they do it “sometimes,” whereas others admitted to doing it “all the time.”

The challenge is alleged to be “especially noticeable and increasing” amongst drivers below 25, with nearly half (49%) admitting to utilizing a handheld cellphone for calls whereas driving. Around 3 in 10 have even made video calls, and 19% have taken pictures or recorded videos whereas behind the wheel.

The examine discovered that almost all drivers who admit to utilizing their telephones illegally, round 60%, say they solely do it when visitors is stationary, considering it’s comparatively protected, regardless that it’s nonetheless in opposition to the law. An extra 12% imagine they will safely maintain and use a cell phone whereas driving.

When can I not use my cellphone – and are there any exceptions?

The official GOV.UK web site confirms: “It’s illegal to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send or receive data, while driving or riding a motorcycle. This means you must not use a device in your hand for any reason, whether online or offline. For example, you must not text, make calls, take photos or videos, or browse the web.”

The law nonetheless applies to you in the event you’re:

• stopped at visitors lights
• queuing in visitors
• supervising a learner driver
• driving a car that turns off the engine once you stop transferring
• holding and utilizing a machine that’s offline or in flight mode

There are exceptions, it provides. This means drivers can use a machine held in your hand if:

• you need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop
• you’re safely parked
• you’re making a contactless cost in a vehicle that’s not transferring, for instance at a drive-through restaurant
• you’re utilizing the machine to park your vehicle remotely

You can use units with hands-free options whereas driving, however you should by no means maintain them. Hands-free choices embrace Bluetooth headsets, voice instructions, dashboard holders, windscreen mounts, and built-in sat navs. Make sure the machine is positioned so it doesn’t block your view of the highway or visitors.

Points and a fine

If the police suspect that you’re not totally in control of your vehicle as a consequence of distraction, you could be prosecuted. Using or holding a cellphone, sat nav, pill or any machine succesful of sending or receiving information whereas driving or using a motorbike can lead to six penalty points and a £200 fine. For drivers who handed their check within the final two years, this offence may also result in the loss of their licence.

Additionally, you could obtain three penalty points in case you are utilizing something that obstructs your view of the highway or different visitors. You may be taken to court docket, the place you would possibly face a driving or using ban and a most fine of £1,000. This fine will increase to £2,500 in case you are driving a lorry or bus.