Now drivers of Great Britain will not be able to use the mobile loophole that is used to take photos or play a game. The authority has introduced a new law that stated that people will be fined up to £1,000 and receive six points on their driving license for taking pictures or playing games with a handheld device while driving.
According to the law, people can use hands-free while driving only if secured in a cradle. But utilizing handheld devices is forbidden. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said, “The government was taking a zero-tolerance approach in this regard”. However, the changed law will not be applicable in Northern Ireland. This law is an extension of an existing offense. Previously it stated that making phone calls or sending text messages are not allowed while driving.
In 2019 a man who overturned a conviction for filming a crash said to the court that he was not using his phone to communicate. At that time, ruling two High Court judges criticized the law and mentioned that the current law had failed to evolve with the rise of technology.
The Department for Transport (DfT) found that 17 people were killed and a further 114 were seriously injured in road accidents where drivers were using a mobile. So, Mr. Shapps said: “I will do everything in my power to keep road users safe, which is why I am taking a zero-tolerance approach to those who decide to risk lives by using their phone behind the wheel.” Shapps also added, “I’m ensuring anyone who chooses to break this vital law can face punishment for doing so, and we’ll continue our efforts to ensure our roads remain among the safest in the world.”