New penalties for mobile phone usage

The current fine of £30 will increase to £60 and three penalty points on an individual’s licence. If drivers get six points within two years of passing their test, their licence will be revoked and they will need to re-sit the test. If the case goes to court, there could be a maximum fine of £1,000, which rises to £2,500 for the driver of a bus, coach, or heavy goods vehicle.

• Employers can be prosecuted if they require employees to make or receive mobile calls while driving.
• It is an offence to cause or permit the use of a hand-held mobile phone when driving.
• It is also an offence to cause or permit a driver not to have proper control of a vehicle.

You should ensure that you can demonstrate that you have advised all your employees of the law

For further information on the increase in fine see the Department for Transport website.