Legislation Update
Mobile phonesUsing a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal. It has been since 2003. From 1 March, the penalties for holding and using your phone while driving increased. It’s now 6 points and £200.
It is not illegal to use hands free, but any time a
driver’s attention is not on the road can be dangerous.
The facts- Drivers
using a hands-free or handheld mobile phone are slower at recognising and
reacting to hazards.
- Research
shows:
- You
are four times more likely to be in a crash if you use your phone.
- Your
reaction times are two times slower if you text and drive than if you
drink drive, and this increases to three times if you use a handheld
phone.
- Even
careful drivers can be distracted by a call or text – and a split-second
lapse in concentration could result in a crash.
- It's
illegal to use a handheld mobile when driving. This includes using your
phone to follow a map, read a text or check social media. This applies
even if you’re stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.
- It
is also illegal to use a handheld phone or similar device when supervising
a learner driver.
- You
can only use a handheld phone if you are safely parked or need to call 999
or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop.
- If
you’re caught using a handheld phone while driving, you’ll get 6 penalty
points on your licence and a fine of £200. Points on your licence will
result in higher insurance costs.
- If
you get just 6 points in the first two years after passing your test, you
will lose your licence.
- Using
hands free (e.g. for navigation) is not illegal. However, if this
distracts you and affects your ability to drive safely, you can still be
prosecuted by the police.
·
Put your phone away before driving so
you won’t be tempted to use it. Make the glove compartment the phone
compartment.
·
Don't call other people when they're
driving.
·
Use hands free devices responsibly.
THINK! Road safety campaign is run by the Department for Transport
Source: think.direct.gov.uk
Health and Safety Guidance
How Many First Aiders Do We Need?Suggested Numbers of first aiders to be available at all times people are at work
Source: www.hse.gov.uk