Drivers are increasingly likely to be penalized for a 'confusing' road rule as more advanced cameras are deployed across UK roads to combat dangerous driving. The issue centers on mobile phone use behind the wheel.
What the law says about phones and driving
Smarter cameras can now detect drivers using phones while driving. Research suggests many motorists still do not fully understand the rules regarding phone use at the wheel. As many as 90% have admitted breaking the rules—some unknowingly—during journeys.
Confusion often arises from the tightening of laws in 2022. While most people know it is illegal to make calls or send texts while driving, there is less clarity about wider restrictions.
Tougher rules now prohibit touching a phone for almost any reason while behind the wheel, including when the car is stationary, such as at traffic lights or in gridlocked traffic. Despite this, it remains common to see drivers looking down at their phones, checking messages, scrolling social media, or changing music. All these actions are banned and can result in fines and penalty points.
Sat nav use and phone holders
Drivers should also be cautious about using phones as sat navs. This is only allowed if the device is secured in a holder before the start of a journey. Phones must not be held while being used as sat navs or taken out of holders.
While research suggests millions of drivers get away with it, new digital cameras capable of detecting phone use at the wheel have been installed in various parts of the country. A recent trial in Scotland uses cameras specifically designed to detect phone usage.
A survey found that 90% of respondents admitted they had touched their phones during journeys, highlighting the scale of the issue.
