Tough new penalties for phone using motorists from today

Drivers who use their mobile phones behind the wheel will face tougher punishments under new legislation which comes in to force today.

It's thought many drivers are unaware of the tough new sanctions which come into force from today, for using a mobile phone at the wheel.

Anyone caught using a device on the road from now on could be hit with a fine of at least £200 and six penalty points - double the previous sanctions.

New drivers who use their handsets at the wheel even once will be banned.

Jed White from the central Motorway Policing group says it just isn't worth the risk:

A recent survey by the Co-Operative Insurance revealed nearly a third of all surveyed were willing to admit having used a phone while driving.

More than half also said they did not believe the extra penalties would be enough to stop people from using their mobiles illegally, with 67% saying that offenders should be banned from driving.

James Hillon, Head of Products at Co-op Insurance, said that using a phone while driving can seriously impact a motorist’s ability to drive safely, he said:

Read more: The tragic stories behind using a mobile phone at the wheel

Ever texted while driving? You could lose your licence under tough new penalties