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Drivers using handphones in any way behind the wheel will face £ 200 fines and possible bans when changes in the law take smartphones into account.
While making calls or texting on a mobile phone while driving is already illegal, taking photos, scrolling through a playlist, or even playing games on phones has not been banned so far, allowing drivers to escape. of charges when detected with a phone.
The government will update the law to close the loophole, which currently defines the crime as only “interactive communication.”
Highways Minister Baroness Vere said: “Our roads are some of the safest in the world, but we want to make sure they are even safer by introducing the law in the 21st century.
“That is why we seek to strengthen the law to make it illegal to use a handheld phone while driving in a wider range of circumstances. It’s distracting and it’s dangerous, and for too long risky drivers have been able to escape punishment, but this update will mean that those who do the wrong thing will face the full force of the law. “
The government said the change, which will take effect after a 12-week public consultation, would allow police to take immediate action if they see a driver holding and using a phone behind the wheel. The offense will incur a £ 200 fine and six driver’s license points. An automatic ban is usually triggered when drivers accumulate 12 points for violations.
Motorists will still be able to use phones as devices to pay for goods or services in self-service businesses like takeout.
A government spokeswoman said motorists could also use phones as satellite navigators, if not physically holding them. Drivers could still be prosecuted for driving without due care and attention if they attempt to write driving directions.
Police Chief Anthony Bangham, who is responsible for road surveillance at the National Police Chiefs Council, said: “Using a mobile phone while driving is incredibly dangerous and being distracted at the wheel can change lives forever. The police will crack down hard against those who use a handheld mobile phone illegally, and proposals to clarify the law are welcome. “
The AA Automotive Organization welcomed the stricter legislation. Jack Cousens, head of road policy, said: “Drivers should focus on the road ahead and not on the tweet or email that just pinged their phone.”
But he added: “Closing the gaps is one thing; getting more cops in cars to catch people in the act will further deter drivers. “
The move may disappoint activists who called on ministers to go further and ban the use of hands-free features while driving. Last year, Commons’ select committee for transportation recommended that the government consider banning the use of hands-free phones behind the wheel, saying they also posed a risk.
