28 March 2024

Driven by Passion...

A recent study has revealed that almost three fifths of 18 to 24 year olds still regularly using their mobile phone while behind the wheel. The study from GoCompare showed that 58% of young drivers admitted to committing the offence, despite the harsher mobile phone penalties being introduced less than two years ago.

 

Risking it all

In 2017 the law changed and those who choose to ignore it now face a £200 fine and six penalty points on their license if they are caught using a mobile phone while driving. Drivers that have passed their test in the last 24 months are only able to accumulate six penalty points before losing their license and having to re-take their driving test. This means that being caught using a mobile phone at the wheel just once can lead to an instant ban for young or new motorists.

It’s not only people’s right to drive that is being put in jeopardy. It is estimated that using a mobile phone while driving is the equivalent og being blind for 4.6 seconds out of every 6 seconds, which is more than 75% of the time. Not only that, but texting while driving at 50mph means that you’re not looking at the road for 102 metres, which is longer than a football pitch!

 

Not just young drivers

And before you veteran drivers shake your heads at the youth of today, it’s not just the younger drivers who are breaking the law. A shocking 34% of all drivers admit to using their mobile phone while behind the wheel, with three quarters of these admitting to using their phone while actually on the move.

 

So when are you allowed to use your mobile phone while driving in the UK? In order to obey the law and stay safe, then drivers need to use a hands-free device and make sure that it is set up properly before driving. It’s also worth noting that you cannot pay for items with your mobile phone while driving – so this includes paying for fast food at drive-through restaurants.

As well as the safety and legal aspects involved with being caught using your mobile phone while in control of a motor vehicle, people also face increased insurance premiums. So next time you’re reaching for your phone in order to reply to that text while driving, consider whether it’s really worth it.

 

Motoring , News

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