1 August 2024

Use of mobile phones while driving doubles since 2022

The number of drivers caught flouting the law by using a hand-held mobile phone behind the wheel has increased by more than 90% in the past two years.

Reaching a seven-year high, some 13,332 drivers were successfully prosecuted in England and Wales, compared to 6,990 drivers who were found guilty in 2022.

The Government changed the law to cover any use of a handheld phone while driving in 2022, extending the types of devices which contravene the law as well as expanding the definition of 'using' to include using a camera, accessing the internet and checking notifications.

Anyone caught using their hand-held device faces a fine of up to £1,000 as well as six points on their licence or a full driving ban.

The AA believes this action, coupled with Police Forces across the country now using roadside cameras, covert HGVs and targeted periods of enforcement have contributed to the rise.

“Despite a high-profile change in the law, it seems many drivers are still falling foul when it comes to using a mobile phone behind the wheel,” said Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA. “While our phones have become smart, it is dumb to play with them when driving.”

Analysis by the AA of figures released from the Ministry of Justice also show that driving without vehicle tax rose to an all-time high of 99,694 convictions, a year-on-year increase of 94%.

It is vital fleet managers stress the importance of road safety to their drivers. Use of mobile phones is not only illegal and carries a punishment of points and a fine, but it is also very dangerous for others on the road. Use of hands-free devices is encouraged if using your mobile at all.