Under the new law, there will be an exemption for drivers making a contactless payment using their mobile phone while stationary to ensure the law keeps pace with technology. This exemption will cover, for example, places like a drive-through restaurant or a road toll, and will only apply when payment is being made with a card reader.
It will not allow motorists to make general online payments while driving.
Furthermore, drivers will still be able to continue using devices ‘hands-free’ while driving, such as a sat-nav, if it’s secured in a cradle. They must, however, always take responsibility for their driving and can be charged with an offence if the police find them not to be in proper control of their vehicle.
Says Transport Secretary Grant Shapps:
“Too many deaths and injuries occur whilst mobile phones are being held.
“By making it easier to prosecute…
