Drivers in the United Kingdom will face fines and licence suspensions if they use cellphones in their vehicles, according to the British Department for Transport (DfT).
While it is already illegal in the United Kingdom to text or make a phone call while driving, the new laws, which will go into effect in 2022, will go even further by prohibiting drivers from using cellphones to take photos or videos, scroll through playlists, or play games.
It will also make the use of handheld devices illegal when vehicles are stopped at traffic lights or stuck in a line on a gridlocked highway.
Offenders will receive a 200-pound ($269) fixed penalty notice and 6 points on their licence, risking a ban under a points totting-up system, according to UK media.
The tougher rules are the result of a public consultation in which 81% of respondents supported proposals to strengthen the law and make it easier for perpetrators to be prosecuted.
According to a DfT study released on Friday, younger drivers are more likely to have used a handheld device while driving.
According to an Ipsos MORI poll conducted for the DfT, roughly two-thirds of 16-24 year olds used their cellphones in hand while stationary in traffic or at traffic lights, and roughly six in ten used their phones while moving in traffic.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Too many deaths and injuries occur while mobile phones are being held. By making it easier to prosecute people illegally using their phone at the wheel, we are ensuring the law is brought into the 21st century.”
