Phones in vehicles provide considerable benefits. For example, the ability to call emergency services, access weather and traffic information, as a means of security for lone drivers, and to allow communications on the move.

New regulations

It is currently a specific offence to hold and use a mobile phone or other electronic communication device such as Blackberry, PDA etc whilst driving. This is in addition to the current laws governing safe driving. During 2005 this legislation will be strengthened further, the fine will increase to £60 and 3 penalty points.

The only defence for a person charged with this offence would be where the driver has made a genuine emergency call to 999 when it would have been unsafe to stop driving to make the call.  

Hands free car kits

Under the new legislation it will not be a specific offence to use a hands-free car kit that allows the driver to make calls without holding the phone. However, even if you use a car kit you may still be prosecuted for offences existing under current laws (such as dangerous driving) if you fail to keep proper control of your vehicle.

For professional advice on finding the best hands-free car kit for you call pinnacle.

If you don’t wish to use a hands-free car kit, then you can switch your phone off whilst driving and use your Voicemail to catch up on your messages at the end of your journey, or when you have pulled off the road and stopped in a safe place.

Pinnacles advice for clients

Ultimately, the control of your car whilst driving is your responsibility.

If you decide you need to make or take calls in a vehicle, we recommend a hands-free car kit, and that you never use a hand-held phone whilst driving.

If you need to take a call with a hands-free car kit, try to keep it to a minimum and warn the other person that you are driving and may need to break off conversation at any time.

Hands-free car kits should only be used when it is safe to do so. If you are in any doubt, you should find a safe place to pull over, stop and switch off your engine before using a mobile phone.

When using a hands-free car kit, please also bear in mind that:

• Longer calls are more of a distraction than shorter calls
• Emotional or complex calls are more distracting than simple calls
• Driving conditions also affect distraction levels for drivers. Some research has shown that the highest levels of distraction occur if you engage in a long emotional or complex call when driving conditions are easy.

More information on the subject can be found at the Department of Transport web site or the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.

Department of Transport