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Avoiding Mobile Phone Temptation: Staying Safe On The Road

As we all know, using a mobile phone while driving can be incredibly dangerous, not to mention illegal. In the UK, it’s an offence that can result in a £200 fine and six penalty points on your licence. So, it’s really not worth taking the risk. With that in mind, we’ve put together some tips to help you avoid the temptation of using your mobile phone while driving.

But first consider…

The Risks of Hands-Free Use

Many people believe that using a hands-free kit makes it safe to use their mobile phone while driving. However, this is not entirely true. Even with a hands-free kit, you are still at risk of being distracted when you dial, talk, text, or browse your phone while driving. This means you could still be prosecuted for not being in control of your vehicle, which can lead to a fine of £100 and three penalty points on your licence.

The Statistics

According to government figures for 2021, which are the latest available, 1% of drivers were observed using a hand-held mobile phone while driving. The worst offenders were van drivers, with 1.9% of them using their mobiles, compared to 0.8% of car drivers. Additionally, males aged 17 to 29 were the most likely to be observed using a mobile phone while driving.

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Simple Tips to Avoid Temptation

There are some simple steps you can take to reduce the temptation of using your mobile phone while driving. Here are our top tips:

1. Only Use Your Phone When Safely Parked

If you need to use your phone, make sure you are safely parked with the engine off and the handbrake on. Do not use your phone in any other driving situation, including when you’re stationary at traffic lights or queueing in traffic.

2. Emergency Calls Only

The only exception to this rule is if it’s an emergency, and it would be unsafe or impractical to stop. In this case, you may call 999.

3. Don’t Rely on Hands-Free Kits

Don’t assume that using a hands-free kit makes it safe to use your phone while driving. You are still putting yourself at risk of being distracted from the task of safe driving, which can result in a fine and penalty points on your licence.

4. Plan Your Calls and Messages

Take a few minutes before a journey to make important calls or to check voice messages and emails. Work together with friends, family, colleagues, and work contacts to remove the expectation that we should all be available, all the time.

5. Plan Breaks into Your Journey

Plan your journeys to include breaks from driving where you can safely call, text, or interact with social media. This way, you can stay connected without risking your safety or the safety of others on the road.

Conclusion

Using a mobile phone while driving is not only illegal but incredibly dangerous. By following these simple tips, you can reduce the temptation of using your phone while driving, helping to keep you and other road users safe. Remember, taking a few extra minutes to plan your journey and avoid distractions could save a life.

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4-Star Car Warranty

Select this option to cover a wide range of components on your vehicle, and get up to £7,000 claim limit towards the cost of parts, labour and VAT in the event of mechanical breakdown or electrical failure, or imminent failure identified during an MOT or service.

5-Star Car Warranty

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