There's always someone who decides to call you whilst driving, whether it be a business correspondent or a loved one, there’s always a burning temptation to answer it. Prior to December 2003 it would have been second nature to receive the call, press the phone to your ear and converse at your will. Now however, this act is a prosecutable offence carrying repercussions to the extent of imprisonment should you get caught.
After research into mobile phone use whilst driving revealed that mobile phones were responsible for many motoring offences and accidents, the lethal combination was prohibited. But just because an act is illegal it doesn’t mean people completely stop doing it, everyday drivers are endangering their and other people's lives by performing seemingly minor functions on their handheld mobile devices.
Break down of the law
It's not just mobile phones that are illegal to use whilst driving, Sat Navs and MP3 players are also covered by the law, basically handheld devices which possess interactive functions are illegal for use whilst the engine’s running. The term "using a mobile phone" doesn't just refer to making a call, accessing the internet or texting while driving along with other functions are also included in the legislation.
Possible consequences
The possible penalties of being caught with a mobile phone behind the wheel include fines, points on your licence or even imprisonment if you're accused of dangerous driving. These penalties have been imposed due to concentration lapse drivers experience whilst using their phones. According to Think! drivers are four times as likely to experience an accident if they're using their phone on the road. Essentially, you're getting off lightly with points and a fine compared to the consequences of a deadly collision.
If you're found guilty of using a mobile phone whilst driving you could experience a driving ban if you already have existing points on your licence. This could result in loss of career, deficiency in earnings and financial distress - all because you did something as miniscule as view a text.
It's better to be safe than sorry
The ban of mobile phones whilst driving has led to a range of accessories becoming available to enable drivers to receive calls without using their hands. Bluetooth wireless headset accessories attach to your mobile phone and ear, enabling you to take calls hands-free. Visor mounts are an alternative to headsets and clip to the sun visors in your car, they can often have voice activation so making a call needn't occupy your hands.
For road safety reasons, every driver should have a hands-free device readily available in their car. There’s always an occurrence when the urge to answer a call is incredibly strong, and rather than risking your licence and livelihood it's better to have a fool-proof device that ensures you never fall foul to the law.
