From the 25^th March, handling mobile devices including a phone or any other interactive device whilst driving, such as external or in-built satnavs, will be illegal.

The rules also apply when stopped at traffic lights, queuing in traffic, supervising a learner driver, driving a car that turns off the engine when you stop moving and holding or using a device that’s offline or in flight mode.

Exclusions include:

• Using contactless payments at drive-throughs from a vehicle that is not moving
• When you’re safely parked*
• If you need to call the emergency services and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop

* “Safely parked” is defined as being either stopped at the side of the road or in a designated parking bay with your engine off.

Hands free devices

You can still use devices with hands free access as long as you don’t hold them during usage or they block your vie of the road and vehicles ahead. Hands free devices can include:

• Blue tooth headset
• Voice command
• Dashboard holder or mat
• Windscreen mount
• Built in sat nav

The penalty for breaking these rules on use of mobile devices is a £200 fine and six penalty points on your driving licence, but if you passed your driving test in the last 2 years, you’ll lose your licence. For more information click here If you would like to review your motor fleet insurance please get in touch with the team at Lockyers or call 01924 2788222.