Expanding the offence of using a hand-held mobile phone while driving to include non-connected mobile application actions
Proposes expanding the mobile phones while driving rules to include the use of stored, non-connected ('standalone mode' or 'flight mode') functions.
Detail
Consultation proposing:
- broadening the offence of using a hand-held mobile phone while driving so that it captures standalone mode functions as well as the existing interactive communication functions
- to introduce a new exemption to the using a hand-held mobile phone while driving offence to allow drivers to make contactless payments using a mobile phone at appropriate locations, for example at drive through food outlets
These changes, if implemented, will need to be reflected in The Highway Code, and the consultation document includes the suggested revised wording.
Documents
Using a mobile phone while driving: consultation on changing the lawapplication/pdfUsing a mobile phone while driving consultation outcome Using a mobile phone while driving consultation: outcome and summary of responsesapplication/pdfExplanatory memorandum to the revision of The Highway Code Rule 149 about using mobile phones while driving application/pdfThe Highway Code: alterations to The Highway Code (Rule 149) proposed to be made by the Secretary of State for Transport and laid before both Houses of Parliament on 1 February 2022 pursuant to section 38 of the Road Traffic Act 1988application/pdf