What Car? Q&A - Why no points for drivers using mobiles?

Q: I was pleased when the Government finally took a stand on the use of mobile phones while driving – but why won’t they give penalty points to offenders?
Roger Phillips

A: As the law currently stands, motorists caught using hand-held mobile phones while driving will receive £30 on-the-spot fines. Maximum fines of up to £1000 can be imposed if offenders are convicted of dangerous driving.

The Department for Transport was able to introduce these penalties without a change in the law, but has had to propose new legislation to allow points to be added to licences as well.

These measures are contained in the Road Safety Bill which is currently working its way through Parliament. It should be passed some time this year and make holding a mobile whilst driving your car an endorsable offence.