The number of drivers convicted for using hand-held mobile phones while driving has nearly doubled since 2022. A staggering 13,332 drivers were prosecuted in 2023, compared to 6,990 drivers in 2022.
Changes to the law in 2022 made it illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving for any reason such as to use the camera, access the internet, check notifications or change a playlist. Under these updated rules, drivers using hand-held devices behind the wheel can face heavy penalties, including fines of up to £1000, up to six points on their license and even driving bans.
The AA have theorised that the rise in prosecutions is the result of this new law coupled with roadside cameras, covert HGVs and target periods of enforcement.
Jack Cousens, head of road policy for the AA said: “Despite a high-profile change in the law, it seems many drivers are still falling foul when it comes to using a mobile phone behind the wheel.”
Figures released by the Ministry of Justice also showed that cases in other offences rose from their 2022 levels:
• Driving without road tax – 51,458 convicted in 2022 compared to 99,694 in 2023
• Keeping a vehicle without insurance – 40,392 convicted in 2022 compared to 58,690 in 2023
• Failure to comply with red lights, signs, etc – 10,864 convicted compared to 11,940 in 2023
Comparatively, offences like speeding and driving a vehicle without insurance fell in 2023. While drink driving and seatbelt offences remained at similar levels to 2022.
With conviction rates at 92% for motoring-related offences, the legal repercussions of offending are evident and road safety is clearly a top priority.
