While driving, you will be breaking the law if you pick up or use any type of phone that is, or must be, held to operate it. For example, this means you may not use your mobile phone when you are stopped at traffic lights; when you are queuing in traffic; to receive calls, pictures, text messages or to access the Internet.
If you are an employer, you can be prosecuted if you require employees to make or receive calls while driving.
It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone when driving. You will receive a £60 fine and three penalty points on your licence* *. Points can mean higher insurance costs.
You can also be prosecuted for using a hands-free mobile phone if you are not in proper control of your vehicle. The penalties will be the same as for using a hand-held phone. And the penalties for driving carelessly or dangerously when using any phone can include disqualification, a large fine and up to two years imprisonment.
Are there any exceptions? Yes – a driver may call 999 or 112 in response to a genuine emergency when it is unsafe or impractical to stop to make the call.
* Think! Tracking Research 2003
** If the case goes to court you risk up to a maximum of £1,000 (£2,500 for drivers of vans, lorries, buses and coaches).