Motorists across the United Kingdom are being warned they could face severe financial penalties and legal consequences for a common behaviour while their vehicles are stationary in traffic. Many drivers remain unaware that checking or operating a mobile phone, even when stuck in a queue or at traffic lights, constitutes a serious offence under current legislation.
Strict Legal Prohibitions on Device Usage
The Government has clarified that using a handheld mobile phone, satellite navigation system, tablet, or any device capable of transmitting or receiving data is illegal while driving a car or riding a motorbike. This prohibition applies regardless of whether the vehicle is moving or stationary, unless it is fully and safely parked. The law explicitly forbids holding and operating such devices under any circumstances while in control of a vehicle.
Specific Prohibited Activities
The legislation covers a wide range of activities that drivers might consider harmless while stationary. These include:
- Sending text messages or using messaging applications
- Making or receiving telephone calls
- Capturing photographs or recording video footage
- Browsing the internet or accessing social media platforms
- Operating navigation applications or systems
When the Law Applies
Critically, the prohibition remains in force in several common stationary situations that drivers might mistakenly believe exempt them from the rules:
- When stopped at traffic signals or red lights
- When stationary in traffic congestion or queues
- While supervising a learner driver during lessons
- When operating vehicles equipped with stop-start technology during automatic engine shutdown periods
- Even when holding a device that is switched off, in aeroplane mode, or otherwise disconnected from networks
Substantial Penalties for Violations
Drivers caught breaking these rules face significant consequences. Standard penalties include six penalty points added to the driving licence and a £200 fixed penalty notice. However, the financial implications can be much more severe.
In certain circumstances, cases may be prosecuted through the courts, where penalties can escalate dramatically. The courts have authority to impose driving bans and maximum fines of £1,000 for car and motorcycle drivers. For operators of larger vehicles, including lorries and buses, the maximum fine increases to £2,500.
Particular Risks for New Drivers
Newly qualified drivers face especially harsh consequences under the graduated driving licence system. Those who obtained their driving licence within the previous two years will automatically lose their licence entirely if they accumulate six penalty points for any offence, including mobile phone use while stationary. This means a single violation could result in complete disqualification from driving for recently qualified motorists.
Limited Exemptions to the Rules
The regulations do include specific exemptions where handheld device use is permitted:
- During genuine emergency situations where it is unsafe or impractical to stop the vehicle, such as when calling 999 or 112 for emergency assistance
- When the vehicle is safely parked with the engine switched off
- When making contactless payments while stationary, such as at drive-through restaurants or toll booths
- When using a device to remotely park a vehicle with appropriate technology
Acceptable Hands-Free Alternatives
Drivers may use devices with proper hands-free access, provided the device is not held at any point during operation. Acceptable hands-free options include:
- Bluetooth headsets or integrated car systems
- Voice command functionality
- Dashboard holders, mats, or windscreen mounts that secure the device
- Built-in satellite navigation systems
However, even with hands-free systems, drivers must ensure the device does not obstruct their view of the road and surrounding traffic. The Government emphasises that motorists must maintain full control of their vehicles at all times. Police officers can stop drivers if they believe distraction from device usage compromises vehicle control, leading to potential prosecution.
The official Government website states clearly: "You must stay in full control of your vehicle at all times. The police can stop you if they think you're not in control because you're distracted and you can be prosecuted." This reminder serves as a crucial warning to all drivers about the serious consequences of device use while in charge of a vehicle, regardless of whether it appears to be stationary safely.
