New Highway Code rule could see drivers slapped with £1k fine for breaking law

We've seen a lot of motoring laws come into power this year.

Recently there was a new rule on motorcycles in bus lanes which came into power.

Drivers who don't follow the changes on the roads could land themselves into a lot of trouble.

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Now motorists could be hit with sanctions for simply touching their mobile phones behind the wheel.

According to cinch, those caught out will be hit with a £200 fine and six penalty points on their licence.

However, these changes can rise to £1,000 if a driver is taken to court on the back of an infringement.

Fees can also become higher for bus and lorry drivers with a maximum penalty surging to £2,500.

It comes after tweaks to the Highway Code in March 2022 closed a loophole which allows drivers using phones to avoid prosecution.

If motorists were caught taking snaps or playing games, they could claim the phone wasn't used for "interactive communication".

Sam Sheehan, motoring editor at cinch, said: "Bear in mind the law about mobile phone use applies in most situations where you might be easily tempted to pick up your device for a quick check.

"Queueing in traffic or waiting patiently at the traffic light?

"Even if you're not currently on the move, you must leave your phone where it is."

But thousands of drivers may not be up to date with the changes putting many families at risk.

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Last October, car insurance company Veygo found almost 31% of drivers didn't know the new guidelines.

Sam added: "To ensure you're safe on the road, leave your handheld device in the glovebox, central console or, if you're using it as a sat nav, in a phone holder mounted on your windscreen or dashboard – as long as it is not obstructing your view.

"It's ok to operate your phone in hands-free mode but you need to make sure you're paying full attention to the road around you."

The government's decision to clamp down on the rule came after a rise in the number of violations.

Former Transport Secretary Grant Shapps backed the new Highway Code changes when they were launched.

He said: "I will do everything in my power to keep road users safe, which is why I'm taking a zero-tolerance approach to those who decide to risk lives by using their phone behind the wheel.

"I'm ensuring anyone who chooses to break this vital law can face punishment for doing so, and we will continue our efforts to ensure our roads remain among the safest in the world."

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