Drivers alerted to new law meaning they are much more likely to be caught using phones

Drivers are being warned about new laws which mean it's much more likely they'll get caught using their phones at the wheel. The tougher laws have resulted in tens of thousands more motorists being hit with fines and penalty points since being introduced, showing huge numbers of motorists are being caught out.

This may be because they don't know the new laws or take the risk thinking they won't be spotted. The rules mean motorists are not allowed to touch or handle their phone in any way while driving. The only exception is in an emergency.

Most of us know we shouldn't make calls or send texts while at the wheel, but not as many know they can't even touch their phones. This includes while stopped in traffic or at traffic lights.

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Things some drivers may consider innocuous like checking a message, changing a song or using Google Maps is all banned, because of the dangers of being distracted and your attention being diverted from the roads.

It still remains a common sight to see drivers looking down at their phones when driving or in traffic. And it's clear the change to the rules has made a huge difference from latest police figures.

The number of drivers caught has risen from 6,431 in 2020 to a whopping 39,085 in 2023 - six times higher in the space of just three years. Enforcement is likely to be ramped up over the Christmas period too, so drivers are warned.

Nicholas Shaw, director of operations at Dayinsure said: “Whilst it may be tempting to check your phone when it vibrates or lights up, even a brief distraction can have devastating consequences. Driving while using a phone diverts your attention from the road, making accidents more likely.

"It significantly impairs your ability to respond to unexpected situations and safely maintain control of your vehicle. A quick check of a message or social media notification is not worth risking your life for, or the lives of others."