Latest News
Switch it off before you drive off
Published: 22/09/2015
天涯社区鈥檚 Road Safety Unit is supporting a campaign to
raise awareness among motorists about the dangers involved when drivers break
the law through phoning or texting at the wheel.
Motorists are being reminded it鈥檚 illegal to use a handheld mobile phone when
driving - whether making a phone call, following a map, reading a text message
or checking social media. The law applies even when stopped at traffic
lights, in a queue of traffic, or in a car park.
A handheld phone can only be used if the vehicle is safely parked or to make
an emergency 999 (or 112) call when it鈥檚 unsafe or impractical to stop.
Offenders can get a fixed penalty notice, resulting in a 拢100 fine and 3 points
on a licence. Those who get just 6 points in the first two years after
passing their test, will lose their licence.
The case could also go to court with potential disqualification from driving or
riding and a maximum 拢1,000 fine. Drivers of buses or goods vehicles could get
a maximum fine of 拢2,500.
A hands-free phone can be used while driving but motorists can still be
prosecuted if they are not in control of their vehicle. The penalties are same
as being caught using a handheld phone.
The penalties for driving carelessly or dangerously when using a handheld or
hands-free phone can include disqualification, a large fine and up to two years
imprisonment
天涯社区s Chief Officer for Streetscene Steve Jones said:
This is an important campaign which could save lives. All Road Safety Wales
partners are working together to tackle this issue and we will continue to
drive home the message that you need to switch off before you drive off.