Strict new Highway Code rule change on mobile phones could see fines of up to £1,000 for drivers

A Highway Code update has changed the rules for drivers using mobile phones behind the wheel.

Drivers will now face hefty fines for just touching their phones while driving, with the same going for passengers in certain circumstances under the tough rule update.

The rule applies to drivers sitting in stationary traffic – such as at traffic lights or in motorway queues – as well as to passengers supervising a learner driver.

Anyone caught using a mobile phone while driving could face a fine of up to £1,000 and six penalty points on their driving licence or a full driving ban.

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While existing rules already make it an offence to use an ‘interactive communication’ function, such as texting or calling, while behind the wheel, the Department for Transport updated the rules to include almost any use, including taking photos or videos or scrolling through playlists.

Drivers won’t even be able to take a call or dial a number while driving, even when putting the device back in its cradle for the duration of the conversation.

Read More: Highway Code rule change could see drivers be fined £200 in traffic jams and drive-thrus

This has been done to close a loophole previously used by some drivers who claimed they ‘weren’t using their device for interactive communication’ to avoid conviction.

The only exception is to call 999 or 112 in a genuine emergency when it is unsafe or impractical to stop.

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There is also an exception when using a mobile phone or similar device to make a contactless payment at a drive-thru restaurant or toll booth, though the vehicle must be stationary and the goods or services must be received at the same time or soon after the contactless payment.

This comes as the Highway Code undergoes a number of new rule updates and changes, including who gets the right of way at junctions.

For example, drivers, motorcyclists, horse riders and cyclists must now give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from which they are turning.

A new section under rule 186 also states that road users are required to give priority to cyclists on roundabouts.