AA warns drivers they could lose licence over common mistake
The AA has issued a warning to motorists that they must exercise caution on Britain's roads - as committing one frequent error could result in a driving ban. On their website, the motoring organisation explains that novice drivers who make a slip-up will be required to resit their test.
They say that since June 1997, accumulating six points within two years of passing your test will result in licences being annulled. This doesn't just mean you're no longer a qualified motorist - it also means you'll need to apply for a fresh provisional licence.
Should this occur, you'll be forced to become a learner driver once more, until you're able to retake and pass both the theory and practical examinations, which you'll naturally have to fund again, reports Hull Live. The AA cautions that the penalty for using a handheld mobile phone whilst driving is now six points and a £200 fine after a law change in 2021.
This means that by making this frequent blunder, you'll forfeit your licence for a single violation. The AA said: "Over the last twenty years far too many lives have been lost because of drivers using a phone at the wheel."
What's the law on using your phone while driving?
The AA clarifies that a handheld device is defined as something that "is or must be held at some point during the course of making or receiving a call or performing any other interactive communication function".
The prohibition on using hand-held devices while driving means you cannot:
Text
Make a phone call that isn't hands-free
Use your device to navigate
This legislation is applicable even if you are:
Stopped at traffic lights
Queuing in traffic
Supervising a learner driver
The law states: "It applies even if you have an automatic stop-start and the engine's cut out briefly". This legislation was introduced in 2021, making it illegal to pick up and use a mobile phone while driving.
It closed a loophole that previously allowed drivers to use their phones for taking photos, recording videos or playing games. However, there's no need to panic as drivers can still make hands-free calls and use their mobiles to pay at drive-throughs. More information about this law can be found on the gov.uk website.
Wondering what to do if you need to use your phone? According to The Highway Code (239), motorists should turn off their engines if they stop on the roadside. By doing so, it eliminates any doubt that you're still driving.
Once you've found a safe place to park with the handbrake engaged, you're free to use your phone and make calls.
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