Increased fines for drivers using mobile phones

(PLO)- Drivers will be considered against the law if they use mobile phones for any use, including taking pictures, recording videos…

In the UK, the use of mobile phones while driving has stricter laws governing it, making it illegal to use a hand-held device at the wheel in most cases.

From March 25, it will be illegal for drivers to use their mobile phones for any purpose, including taking pictures, recording videos, scrolling through music playlists and play game.

Drivers using cell phones can be fined up to 30 million VND. Photo: AUTOCAR

Motorists caught using a hand-held device while driving can be fined up to £1,000, receive six penalty points on their license or be banned from driving altogether.

People behind the wheel will still be able to make contactless payments in locations such as driveways as long as their vehicle is stationary.

Hands-free devices are still legal, too, so drivers can still use the sat-nav on their phones if they’re secured in a cradle.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said strict changes were being introduced to enhance safety, closing a loophole where motorists could claim they were not using their phones.

“I will do everything in my power to keep road users safe, which is why I take a zero-tolerance approach to those who decide to risk their lives by using their phone behind the wheel. “- said Shapps.

New laws were proposed in parliament in November 2021, following a public consultation, in which 81% of respondents supported tougher measures.

“AA has long campaigned to make the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving as socially unacceptable behavior as drinking while driving, and we warmly welcome the new law. This is essential to strengthen the rules to make our roads safer,” said AA president Edmund King.