Penalties for using mobile phones while driving to be increased next year

Penalties for using mobile phones while driving to be increased next year

The Government has announced changes to penalties for using hand-held mobile phones while driving. The new sanctions will apply in England, Scotland and Wales but not Northern Ireland (where the offence attracts three penalty points and a fine of £60). Legislation will now be drafted and the changes are expected to come into effect next year as follows.

• Drivers caught using a mobile phone for the first time will automatically receive six penalty points

• There will not be the option for new drivers (including those driving an HGV) to take a driving course instead of the points and fine.

• Fines for offences will increase from £100 to £200 and penalty points from three to six (for drivers of all classes of the vehicle)

Read the Government’s report on the changes here – https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/565099/hand-held-mobile-phone-driving-consultation-response.pdfe.

Source FTA