Drivers face £200 fine for touching their phone as new rule introduced

dailystar.co.uk:

motorists face a £200 fine for simply touching their phone while driving.The new rule has been introduced to crack down on a loophole that allows drivers to use their phones behind the wheel without being fined.Currently, drivers are penalised if they use a handheld phone while driving for "interactive communication", for example calling or texting.This technically means drivers can use their phones to check the time or a notification, take a photo, or scroll through a playlist.However, the law has now changed, meaning drivers will face a £200 fine and six points on their license if caught using their phone at all.This is during all circumstances, such as being stuck in traffic, in queues, or traffic lights.The only exception to the new law is if the driver has to make an emergency call.Keith Hawes, director of Nationwide Vehicle Contract, said: “The changes to mobile phone driving laws are vital to improving the safety of Britain's roads."Drivers must take these rules seriously to help reduce the number of tragic deaths caused by violations.“It is not just mobile devices that drivers should be cautious of.

Despite no new rules being enforced on the use of internal infotainment systems, they can be a potential distraction for drivers.“Touchscreens have become a common addition to modern vehicles, and the more complex they become, the more distracting they can be."If you are found to be not properly in control of your vehicle as a result of using dashboard gadgets or hands-free devices you could still be prosecuted.“The news comes after new rules introduced back in January also see drivers fined £200 if they don't give way to pedestrians.Get all the biggest Lifestyle news straight to your inbox.