MONEY COMMENT
New Rules For UK Motorists

By Cliff D'Arcy
November 26, 2003

Although I've read a lot of articles about the new law on driving while using mobile phones, I haven't seen any TV or poster campaigns advertising the new rules. Indeed, according to one survey, two out of five motorists are unaware of the new legislation.

This practice is already banned in more than thirty countries, and research suggests that people who use a mobile phone while driving are four times more likely to have an accident. So, for the benefit of the drivers in our audience, here's our guide to using mobiles while driving:

• From 1 December, it will be an offence to hold and use a handheld mobile phone while at the wheel. This applies even if you are in a traffic jam or at traffic lights, unless you have parked or switched off your engine.
• You can't get around this by cradling your handset between your shoulder and chin, because you are still 'holding' the phone.
• Texting is also forbidden, even if your handset remains in its cradle, as you may not be driving with due care and attention.
• There is an on-the-spot penalty of £30, or a fine of up to £1,000 if your case goes to court. The fine could be as high as £2,500 for drivers of goods or passenger-carrying vehicles.
• To use a hands-free phone, you need a cradle fixed to the dashboard that holds your mobile, plus an earpiece and microphone or Bluetooth headset. You can use auto-dialling and voice answering.
• Holding or touching your handset when using hands-free equipment is also an offence, for example, when dialling a number or receiving a call.
• Users of hands-free phones still risk prosecution for failing to keep proper control of their vehicle or for driving carelessly or recklessly.
• Calls to the emergency services are allowed, if it is unsafe or impractical for you to stop before calling.
• Employers who require their employees to use mobile phones while driving may also be guilty of an offence.

According to one report, one in four drivers intend to ignore the ban, which will keep the traffic police busy over Christmas and beyond! Be warned: the government plans to introduce further legislation such that drivers will receive three penalty points on their licence each time they are caught holding a phone, with the fine rising to £60...

If this news has left you down in the dumps, check out these tips on cutting the cost of motoring:

• Britain's Best Motor Insurers
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• £104 A Week For A Car? Ouch!
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• Make The Most Of Motor Insurance
• Used Car Bargains
• Reduce Your Motoring Costs.

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