Texting drivers: Penalty points and fines to double

[dutchman]

Motorists caught using mobile phones while driving are to face "much tougher penalties", with fines and points doubling, the UK government has said.



Under new rules expected to come in next year, drivers will get six points on their licence and face a £200 fine.

New drivers could also be made to retake their test if they are caught just once.

The RAC welcomed the move but said cuts to traffic police meant many drivers did not think they would be caught.

The new rules could also see more experienced drivers going to court if they offend twice, and facing possible fines of up to £1,000 and at least a six-month driving ban.

The increased penalties will be accompanied by a high-profile government Think! campaign highlighting the dangers of handheld mobile phone use at the wheel.

The Department for Transport said it expected the changes to take effect in the first half of 2017.

Earlier this week, a survey by the motoring organisation suggested nearly a third of UK motorists text, make calls and use apps while at the wheel, with the number having risen since 2014.

Half of the 1,700 people questioned said they had even taken photos and made films while driving.

Department for Transport figures show that a driver impaired or distracted by their phone was a contributory factor in 492 accidents in Britain in 2014, including 21 that were fatal and 84 classed as serious.