Mobile phone driving offences continue to rise despite tightening of law
05 August 2024
The number of motorists found guilty of using a mobile phone whilst driving rose to 13,332 last year – a rise of 90 per cent compared with 6,990 in 2022.
The data corresponds with 22 road deaths and 647 serious injuries resulting from accidents in which a driver was using a mobile device in the same year. This figure rose by a quarter in 2020 compared with 2011 data and continues to rise each year.
Importantly, these figures exclude those who were issued with fixed penalties at the roadside.
This comes after the UK government tightened laws around mobile phone usage behind the wheel in 2022 to align with the capabilities of modern devices. Drivers were prohibited from taking photographs or videos, scrolling through audio playlists or playing games.
Previously, under a law first introduced in 2003, drivers were banned only from texting or making a call while driving, unless hands-free.
Police forces also levelled up enforcement of these rules using roadside cameras and unmarked heavy-goods vehicles which offered a bird’s eye view into the cars of offenders.
AA Head of Roads Policy Jack Cousens said, “Despite a high-profile change in the law, it seems many drivers are still falling foul when it comes to using a mobile phone behind the wheel.
“While our phones have become smart, it is dumb to play with it when driving. The AA led the campaign for tougher enforcement and strong rules to stamp out this offence, but it seems too many fear missing out on their notifications. The best thing to do is convert the glove box into a phone box and keep the mobile out of reach.”
Contact us for minibus leasing
We at Marshall Minibus are proud to serve schools, charities and care homes throughout the UK.
Our minibus leasing contracts are flexible, with tailored payment plans to suit your budget and you can choose from a range of vehicles from 8-seater and 9-seater minibuses all the way through to 17-seater minibuses.
To find out more, please contact us by calling 01480 220444 or emailing info@marshall-minibus.co.uk.
Back to Blog listings