The new mobile phone laws most drivers don't understand

MILLIONS OF MOTORISTS BREAK THE RULES EVERY DAY 11:11, 02 Jun 2025 Most drivers don't understand or aren't aware of new mobile phone laws, research suggests. It means millions are

likely to be breaking the law every day, and leaving themselves at risk of a fine and penalty points. Tightened rules mean motorists are not allowed to touch their phones for almost any

reason while behind the wheel. READ MORE: MIDLANDS TOWN NAMED SECOND 'MOST UNDERRATED' IN COUNTRY WITH CHEAP HOMES AND GREAT TRANSPORT LINKS GET ALL THE LATEST MOTORING NEWS SENT

TO YOUR INBOX BY SIGNING UP TO OUR NEW NEWSLETTER HERE Previously, laws had mostly centred around making calls and sending texts. Article continues below But in a bid to clamp down on phone

use and improve road safety, it's now illegal to touch devices in almost all scenarios. This includes when stationary, like when stopped at traffic lights or stuck in traffic. This is

when drivers are most likely to be tempted to grab their phones to check messages or social media. Other things such as changing music or using Google Maps when the phone is not secured in a

holder are also banned. Laws were tightened in 2022 but data shows the message hasn't got through to many drivers. Others blatantly ignore the rules, perhaps in the belief they are

unlikely to be caught. A recent survey of half a million motorists revealed 90% felt unable to complete journeys without touching their phone. Police operations also show it's one of

the most commonly flouted rules of the road. It's a serious issue, with phone use a common contributing factor in crashes. The best advice is to keep devices out of reach while behind

the wheel. Article continues below RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: “We saw a reduction in motorists admitting to illegal handheld phone use after the penalties were toughened

in 2017 following pressure from the RAC, but numbers are on the rise again now. “In fact, our research shows the proportion of young drivers making and receiving calls illegally hit its

highest rate in eight years in 2024. “Enforcement of the law is critical, so we encourage police forces to roll out more roadside cameras to catch people in the act and get them to change

their ways.”