From March 1st 2017 the law regarding usage of mobile phones while driving has been reinforced with six points penalty and a £200 fine.
If you are a new driver and will be caught using a handheld mobile device while driving within first 2 years since you passed your driving test, your licence will be revoked and you will have to retake your theory test and practical test.
If you are a more experienced driver, you will be banned in case you get 12 points within three years.
Remember that it is illegal to use your handheld phone while driving, even if you use if to check the navigation. It is also illegal to use your phone while you are stopped at traffic lights or in traffic. Using a handheld device distracts you from driving and may result in an accident. If you need to check your phone or make a call, you should pull over to a safe place and park safely with the engine switched off.
The only exception when you are allowed to use a handheld phone while behind the wheel is if you need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency situation and it is unsafe to stop.
Remember that even using hands free device for navigation may distract you and impair your ability to drive safely. If this happens, you can still be prosecuted by the police.
In January 2017 a week-long crackdown by the police resulted in about 8000 drivers being caught using mobile phones while driving. Many drivers still think that if they briefly check their phones or use them while stopped at traffic lights, this won’t make any harm. However, research shows that you are four times more likely to get into an accident if you use your phone while driving. This is because using a phone takes your concentration away from the road, impairs your ability to notice and react to hazards.