Mobile phones

Handheld

Using a handheld mobile phone when driving or riding is both dangerous and illegal.

Independent studies have shown that drivers who use mobile phones are slower at recognising and reacting to hazards, even at slower speeds. 

At 30 mph a vehicle will travel 13.5 metres (45ft) every second. Taking your eyes off the road to read a text or place a phone call means that you could miss someone stepping off the pavement in front of you or the car ahead braking suddenly. 

It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving or riding for any purpose, including using the camera, following a map or checking social media. The law still applies when stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic. 

It is also illegal to use a handheld mobile phone when supervising a learner driver.

You may only use a handheld mobile when you are safely parked, or if you need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it is unsafe or impractical to stop.

You can get six penalty points and a £200 fine if you use a handheld mobile phone. If you have passed your driving test in the last two years you will automatically lose your licence. You may also see an increase in vehicle insurance costs.

Handsfree

Using hands-free devices, such as a Bluetooth headset or voice-operated devices is legal, however the police can stop you if they have reason to believe you are distracted, and you may be prosecuted.
 

More information about guidelines and penalties for using a mobile phone while driving/riding can be found on the government website. 
 

Are you a focused driver?

It's easy to get distracted. Losing concentration when driving can have serious consequences. Try this interactive test. You'll be asked to complete a task whilst travelling along a road. It sounds easy, but is it?

Can you multitask? Finally, an answer.

Life is hectic. It's hard to know where to focus your attention. Should you be trying to multitask? Or is that a losing battle?