Tougher penalties for handheld mobile phone use whilst driving have come into force today (1 March).
All drivers, including HGV drivers, will be subject to a £200 fine and six points on their licence if caught using their mobile phone behind the wheel, up from the previous three points and £100 fine.
Truck or bus drivers could be suspended from driving if caught breaking the law.
Drivers caught using their handheld device twice, or who have accrued 12 points on their licence, will be called to a hearing at a magistrates’ court and could face a fine of up to £1,000 or disqualification.
Drivers caught using their mobile phone within two years of passing their test could have their licence revoked.
Police forces across the UK will be taking part in a week’s enforcement from 1 to 7 March to raise awareness of the change in law.
Transport secretary Chris Grayling said: "Doubling penalties will act as a strong deterrent to motorists tempted to pick up their phone while driving and will also mean repeat offenders could find themselves banned from our roads if they are caught twice.”
See Commercialmotor.com’s 60 second update to mobile phone law for more.
