New mobile phone rules to come into force in March

The Department for Transport has announced that tougher rules on using a mobile phone while driving will be put into force from March 25.

The move will see previous loopholes closed, which allowed drivers to operate their phone to take a picture or video, as well as other actions. Motorists are facing points and a fine if caught under the new rules, so here’s what you need to know about the changes. How are the rules changing?

Though it’ s already illegal to text or make a phone call( other than in an emergency) from a hand-held device when behind the wheel, these changes take things a step further. These new rules will band rivers from using their phones for other reasons, such as when taking a picture, recording a video or playing a game.

It also covers scrolling through music playlists when sat in traffic, as well as checking the time on your phone or viewing notifications – even if you’re caught unlocking the phone or causing the screen to illuminate.

Do I face penalty points if I’ m caught?

Yes. Anyone caught using their hand-held device behind the wheel now faces a £200 penalty and six points on their licence.

That also means that if a driver is caught for this offence within two years of passing their test, they could have their licence revoked.

Could I use my phone if I’ m sitting in stationary traffic?

Absolutely not. In fact, the government is revising the Highway Code to make things clear erin this area, stating that being in stationary traffic still counts as driving.

This is the same case for waiting at traffic lights. Using your phone at these times is illegal, unless in very exceptional circumstances, such as calling the emergency services.

Will Is till be able to use my phone as asat-nav?

Of course. But it must be ‘hands-free’, so secured in a cradle when being used like this. However, drivers must still be in proper control of their vehicle and police could charge them if they find them to be driving irresponsibly.

Will Is till be able to make contact less payments?

The Government has added an exemption to the rules related to contactless payments, meaning drivers will be able to make payments when at certain areas, such as entering a toll road or at a drive-through restaurant, when stationary.