Mobile phones are useful for keeping in touch and doing business on the go. But let’s face it, not many of us can multi-task effectively which is why using your mobile and driving don’t mix. You need to be focused on your driving and not distracted by what’s happening with your mobile. Not only does it put you and others on the road at risk, it can also affect your car insurance. New laws have been passed to stop drivers using their mobile while driving.

Obey the Law:

New legislation introduced by the Department for Transport (DfT) in December 2003 banned the use of a hand-held phone or similar device while driving. This includes any device that is used to send and receive data like voice messages, texts, still and moving images and internet access. The penalty for breaking the law is a fixed fine of £60 and three penalty points on your licence or you could face a £1000 fine if you are convicted in court. Drivers of goods vehicles, buses or coaches can be fined up to £2,500. Penalty points on your licence can also mean higher car insurance premiums. If you are involved in an accident while driving and using your mobile, the penalties are much more severe particularly if someone is killed or hurt.

Hands-free is not home free:

A hands-free phone is not illegal but the law states that drivers still risk prosecution if they use a hands-free phone while driving and fail to have proper control of their vehicle. If you are involved in an accident and were using a hands-free phone at the time, you could face prosecution for careless or dangerous driving.

Safety first:

The safest thing to do when driving is to turn your phone off. Here are some useful tips on how to obey the law and stay safe on the road.

·         Ignore your mobile if it rings

If your phone rings, leave it. Whoever it is can leave a message on your voicemail. Don’t check your messages until you have either arrived at your destination or found a safe place to park. Most mobile companies offer a free voicemail service. If you’re worried about the cost of calling the person back, change your voicemail setting so that you leave a message asking the caller to phone you back at a later time.

·         Ignore text and email messages

Don’t take your eyes off the road to have a quick look. It only takes a split second for an accident to happen.

·         Traffic jam ban

Even when you’re stuck in traffic, you are still not allowed to use your mobile. If your engine is on and running, you are legally classed as ‘driving’.

·         Learner Drivers

If you’re teaching someone to drive you are subject to the mobile phone ban. The learner driver needs your full attention and you cannot give it to them if you’re talking on your mobile.

·         Emergency use only

The only time you are allowed to use your mobile while driving is in an emergency. If you cannot find a safe place to stop and make the call to 999, then you can use your mobile. If you’re driving on the motorway, try to use the emergency phones to call 999 as this makes it easier for the emergency services to locate you.

·         Don’t cradle your phone

Cradling your mobile in your neck while driving may leave your hands free but it seriously restricts your movement and judgement.

For more information on the mobile driving ban visit:

www.dft.gov.uk

www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk/advice/mobilephones.htm

For a list of other driving distractions that could lead to prosecution visit:

www.highwaycode.co.uk

Remember that dangerous driving not only puts you and others on the road at risk, it also affects your car insurance. For more information about Direct Line car insurance visit www.directline.com