As new drug-driving legislation was introduced throughout Wales at the beginning of this month, The Cardiffian explores mobile phone use while driving.
Motorists are four times more likely to crash if they are using a mobile phone while driving and reaction times are around 50 per cent slower than normal driving.
Last year 1,404 fixed penalty notices were issued by South Wales Police to people using their mobile phones while driving.
The law.
It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone or any similar device while driving or riding a motorcycle, even if you are stopped at traffic lights.
This includes using a mobile phone to follow a map, read or write a text or to check social media.
The penalty.
Drivers can face an automatic fixed penalty notice of £100 and three penalty points on their licence.
In some cases drivers can be taken to court and could be disqualified from driving and be issued a fine of up to £1,000. Drivers of buses or goods vehicles could face a maximum fine of £2,500.
In extreme cases motorists can face imprisonment of up to two years.
New drivers.
New drivers can lose their licence if they receive six or more penalty points within two years of passing their test.
Hands-free devices.
Hands-free devices and sat-navs can be used when driving but motorists can still be prosecuted if police believe they are not properly in control of the vehicle.
THINK! Advice.
THINK! is a campaign run by the Department of Transport and provides road safety information for road users. Their aim is to encourage safer behaviour and reduce the number of people killed and injured on the roads every year.
- Switch off before you drive.
- Avoid making and answering calls when driving, even while using hand-free devices.
- Park safely before using a mobile phone.
- Do not call other people when they are driving.
Take THINK!’s driving challenge and test your knowledge – DrivingChallengeCardiffian
Only 19 per cent of people will pass the test will you?
