DRIVERS face being slapped with fines of up to £1,000 for breaking the Highway Code with a very common practice.
An update to road laws in May closed a loophole and clamped down on dangerous driving.
GettyDrivers have been warned they face a £1,000 fine after a Highway Code loophole was closed in May[/caption]
Previously, rules around phone use stated that an offence was committed if motorists used their devices for “interactive communication”.
This meant that those taking photos or playing games could often avoid prosecution.
Now, though, the law has been changed so that even touching your phone while in the car could land you in hot water.
Those caught doing so will be handed a £200 fine and six penalty points on their licence.
However, if cops decide to take a driver to court, they could see that penalty increase to £1,000 or even as high as £2,500 for lorries.
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.
“Even if you’re not currently on the move, you must leave your phone where it is.
“To ensure you’re safe on the road, leave your handheld device in the glove box, 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.”
The Highway Code states that you must not use your phone unless safely parked, with exceptions for scenarios like paying at a drive-thru or calling 999.
You are allowed to use hands-free devices, on the condition that they do not obstruct your view of the road.
When the changes came into force, then-Transport Secretary Grant Schapps 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.”