For many years campaigners have been asking the government to introduce stricter laws on mobile phone usage while driving. The current laws have a for while neglected to consider the increase in interactivity that smart phones have brought, from scrolling through social media to swapping playlists on the go, all of which can be done from the palm of your hand and more worryingly while you’re in control of a motor vehicle.
However, campaigner’s prayers have finally been answered with 2022 now seeing the laws strengthened banning drivers from taking photos or videos, scrolling through playlists or playing games on their devices whilst driving. Anyone caught using their hand-held device whilst behind the wheel will face a £200 fixed penalty notice and six points on their licence. Drivers can still use mobile phones for navigation but only if they are secured in a cradle.
Chief Executive of BRAKE: The Road Safety Charity, Mary Williams OBE welcomed the news saying, “Driver distraction can be deadly and using a hand-held phone at the wheel is never worth the risk. This important road safety decision by government is very welcomed”
This update to the Mobile Phone Laws was introduced following a public consultation in which a staggering 81% of respondents supported the proposals to strengthen the law and make it easier for culprits to be prosecuted.
“Too many deaths and injuries occur while mobile phones are being held”, said Transport Secretary Grant Shapps. “By making it easier to prosecute people illegally using their phone at the wheel, we are ensuring the law is brought into the 21st century while further protecting all road users.”
Here at EchoMaster we welcome these new laws and encourage fleet managers and owners to get in touch to ensure their drivers are complying with the new laws. Our specialist range of Driver Monitoring Solutions actively provide a series of warnings to the driver along with sending a notification to the system administrator / fleet manager (Connected Device and Sim Contract Required) when mobile phone usage is detected, whilst also giving alerts for driver fatigue and smoking. Not only preventing drivers from receiving costly fines and points on their license but also protecting fleet owners along with other vulnerable road users.
Along with our Driver Monitoring Solutions we also have a range of Advanced Driver Assistance systems which alerts the driver to the presence of vehicles and obstacles in front and provides warnings for Distance, Forward Collision & Lane Departure, giving the driver every opportunity to take avoiding actions to prevent accidents.
For more information on the changes to the Mobile Phone Laws please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/any-use-of-hand-held-mobile-phone-while-driving-to-become-illegal
For more information on our range of Driver Monitoring Solutions and ADAS feel free to get in touch with our team.