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01/11/2019

Drivers face prosecution for touching mobile phone behind the wheel

Drivers face prosecution for touching mobile phone behind the wheel

 

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said an urgent review will be carried out to tighten up the existing laws on hand-held mobile use by motorists.

Currently, reckless motorists can only be prosecuted if they are caught using hand-held phones to call or text.

Those who drive while taking photos, filming video or scrolling through music playlists and social media are exempt from punishment due to a legal loophole.

 

Drivers caught holding phones for any reason could face six points on their licence and a fine of up to £200 after the Department for Transport (DfT) revises the legislation.

 

The new law is expected to come into force by spring 2020.