20 Dec 2007
UK drivers caught using a mobile phone, satellite navigation system or MP3 player face up to two years in prison, under new legal guidelines which come into force today.
The new guidance, which has been drafted by the Crown Prosecution Service, means that motorists will be charged with dangerous driving for using the devices in a moving vehicle.
The maximum penalty for dangerous driving is two years in prison, rather than the fine or community service order that was previously available under a charge of careless driving.
Rob Gifford, executive director of the Parliamentary Advisory Council on Transport Safety, said that the new rules would affect only those whose reckless actions led to an accident.
"It is not every single driver using a mobile phone while driving that faces jail. It is those few drivers whose behaviour leads them to have a crash when they are using a mobile at the same time," Gifford told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.
"What people are being reminded is that driving is a complicated activity and it is better to concentrate on driving than talking."
Latest stories from Communications
Related articles
Related jobs
Poll
What is the most important IT priority for your company this year?
Connect with V3.co.uk
This paper focuses on a series of best practices and techniques for development teams looking to improve their software development processes
Why good data management at all levels is essential in the modern business (video, 6mins)
Desktop Deployment Support Analyst (Worksite, SQL...
Project Manager is required by Bank in Germany Suitable...
Mobile & Social Media Application Web Developer...
CCVP Consultant - Telecoms Cisco Certified Voice Professional...
Keep up to date with the latest products, services and technologies from the world's leading IT companies. IThound.com brings you over 2,000 white papers, case studies and analyst reports.
Do you agree?