Drivers may be banned for using phone, even if engine turned off

MOTORISTS COULD BE HIT WITH A DRIVING BAN 04:01, 24 May 2025 Drivers could be at risk of major fines and even a driving ban if they use their phone behind the wheel, even if the vehicle is

stationary and the engine is turned off. According to official guidelines, if a driver is caught using a hand-held device, they could be hit with six penalty points and a fine of £200. New

drivers, who have had their licence for less than two years, risk having their licence revoked which would require them to reapply and pass their test again. A further infringement for

drivers can occur if a handheld device blocks their view of the road or affects their control of the vehicle, leading to three penalty points. In more serious cases, offending motorists may

end up in court where they face the possibility of a driving ban and fines reaching as high as £2,500, subject to the type of vehicle driven. Rule 149 of the Highway Code states: "You

MUST exercise proper control of your vehicle at all times. "You MUST NOT use a hand-held mobile phone, or similar device, capable of interactive communication (such as a tablet) for any

purpose when driving or when supervising a learner driver." This rule This regulation encompasses all devices capable of 'hand-held interactive communication', even if they

are not switched on or are otherwise inoperative. The Highway Code further adds: "You MUST NOT pick up the phone or similar device while driving to dial a number and then put it in the

cradle for the duration of the conversation. You MUST NOT pick up and use your hand-held phone or similar device while stationary in traffic.." Article continues below Official guidance

highlights that these rules are still in place even if the car has a feature that allows it to turn off the engine when it stops moving, such as when you're waiting at a traffic light.

MOBILE PHONE EXCEPTIONS However, the Highway Code does recognise that there are exceptions to the rule of using a handheld device whilst driving. Specifically, if you're in a genuine

emergency situation where it's unsafe or impractical to stop your vehicle, you're allowed to call 999 or 112. There are also other exceptions, but they come with stringent criteria

that must be followed. For example, a driver can use a hand-held mobile phone or similar device to make a contactless payment, as long as the vehicle is stationary at the time and all goods

paid for are received simultaneously with or immediately after the contactless payment is made. Article continues below Furthermore, a handheld remote control app or device can be used,

provided it's legal, the vehicle is parked, and no other drivers or pedestrians are put at risk whilst using it. It's vital to remember that laws regarding mobile usage still apply

if you're: * Supervising a learner driver * Queuing in traffic * Stopped at traffic lights * Holding and using a device that’s offline or in flight mode * Driving a car that turns off

the engine when you stop moving