Driving while using a mobile phone

Mobile phone offences have been introduced recently and the penalties for these offences have also been increased more recently. There are 3 types of offence which relate to driving on a road while using a hand held mobile telephone or a specified hand held device. They are:

• Use of a hand held telephone by the driver of a vehicle

• Causing or permitting the use by the driver
• Supervising a provisional licence holder while using a telephone

The use of a mobile phone includes texting as well as making phone calls.

The penalty if convicted is 6 penalty points and a fine of up to £1000 for car drivers or up to £2500 for HGV and passenger vehicle drivers.

In addition to this you may face disqualification if you already have 9 or more points on your licence. This is known as totting up; please see our separate web page on this.

New drivers who receive 6 penalty points must retake their theory and practical tests.

If you have been involved in an accident as a result of using a mobile phone while driving, you may face a more serious charge such as careless driving or dangerous driving.

If you are charged with any offence relating to mobile phone use while driving contact us and our experienced motoring offences solicitors will help with your defence.