Highway Code explains the only two times you can use phone while in driver's seat

Highway Code explains the only two times you can use phone while in driver's seat There are two very specific times when drivers won't be at risk of breaking the law The Highway Code confirms the very specific circumstances in which drivers will not be in trouble for using their phones at the wheel. Any other time, the law is clear on the consequences. In the majority of cases, using a handheld mobile phone while driving in the UK will lead to at least a £200 fine and six penalty points on your driving licence. You’ll also lose your licence if you are caught within two years of passing your driving test. The law states that drivers may not even have to be making a call or responding to a text to be found guilty. One police force confirms that just "holding any data-capable or handheld device" is an offence. The rules do not stop applying when you are waiting at traffic lights or stuck in a queue. People supervising learner drivers are also required to follow the rules as if they were in control of the car themselves. When are you allowed to use your phone? The two main exceptions to the rule would allow people to avoid the usual fine and points penalty. They are very specific situations, and some apply only in certain locations across the UK. Firstly, if in an emergency you need to call 999 or 112 and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop the vehicle. Secondly, pulling out your phone to pay at drive-throughs and toll booths. With the introduction of contactless payments, the Code was updated to reflect that drivers could technically have been fined for making a payment. The Code also states that people who are "safely parked" do not have to be concerned. Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as a Preferred Source in your Google search settings What do the rules say about hands-free? Using a phone hands-free (via Bluetooth, a voice command, or a phone secured in a cradle/holder) is legal as long as it does not block your view of the road. Care still needs to be taken to ensure drivers don't commit "careless driving" due to this potential distraction. Greater Manchester Police claim: "You can use a hands-free mobile device while driving your car as long as you do not hold it at any time during usage. The device must not block your view of the road and traffic ahead. "However, if the police believe you are distracted and not in proper control of the vehicle, you can still be prosecuted even when using a hands-free device."