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28 March 2022 | Comment | Article by Cari Sowden-Taylor

PUT YOUR PHONE DOWN: Change in law on use of mobile phones whilst driving


On 25 March 2022, the law on people using mobile phones whilst driving in Great Britain became stricter.

Now, anyone caught using a handheld device while driving could face a fine of up to £1,000 as well as six points on their licence or a full driving ban.

Cari Sowden-Taylor, Partner at Hugh James commented:

“At Hugh James we strongly support the change in law as sadly we represent many clients who have suffered life changing injuries or families who have suffered bereavement as a result of road traffic collisions which involve drivers using their mobile phones when it is unsafe to do so.”

Hugh James works closely with many charities such as Brake, which supports people bereaved and seriously injured by road crashes.

Commenting on the introduction of the new rules, Jason Wakeford, Head of Campaigns for Brake, the road safety charity, said:

“Figures show that using a mobile phone at the wheel makes reaction times even slower than when driving under the influence of alcohol, so it’s vital that we always give the road our full attention. Brake supports the families of road crash victims, including those who have had lives torn apart because someone did not pay proper attention to their driving. The temptation of looking at a phone can never be worth someone’s life.”

Author bio

Cari is a Partner and Joint Head of the National Serious Injury Team, and specialises in representing adult and child claimants who have sustained life changing injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, limb loss and polytrauma following road traffic collisions, injuries at work and assaults.

Disclaimer: The information on the Hugh James website is for general information only and reflects the position at the date of publication. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated as such. If you would like to ensure the commentary reflects current legislation, case law or best practice, please contact the blog author.

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