Driving whilst on the phone update

Officers from Derby West Neighbourhood Teams have recently taken action against a growing number of drivers using their phone whilst driving; incredulously, including a driving instructor, who's confidence soon dropped when Officers invited him to the station, and a delivery driver who claimed that it was " fine, I'm parked" , whilst being in the centre lane of the inner ring road.

Using a mobile phone or any other device whilst driving is an offence. Some may argue that they're in control of their vehicle, or that they should determine if they can drive and use a device at the same time. However, It is one of the fatal four- actions drivers take that will significantly increase the chance of being involved in severe, or fatal crashes, causing injury or death to themselves, or other road users or pedestrians.

There are few exceptions to using a mobile phone or device whilst driving:
* you need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop
* you’re safely parked
* you’re making a contactless payment in a vehicle that is not moving, for example at a drive-through restaurant
* you’re using the device to park your vehicle remotely

You can also use a hands free device, as long as you do not hold the device at any time whilst driving.

Officers have sent out Notices of intended prosecution, for those using business vehicles, and others will be issued a £200 fine and 6 points on their licence. If you have passed in the last 2 years, you could lose your licence.

Any phone call can wait, Messages can be sent later, and social media really isn't that important.

Sam 12829