A new proposal has been put forward by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins to create a tougher law around using handheld mobile phones while driving. The goal is to make our roads safer, and to achieve this, a 12-week public consultation has been launched on the legislation. The consultation, which started last week and will run until August 14, is part of the Department for Infrastructure’s Road Safety Strategy Action Plan. It has been illegal in Northern Ireland since 2004 to drive while using a handheld mobile phone or similar device, with a £200 fine and six penalty points as the consequences. However, with the advancements in technology, Minister Kimmins wants to crack down on individuals who think it’s acceptable to engage in activities like taking photos, videos, scrolling through playlists, or playing games while driving.
“Our roads are not a playground for distracted drivers,” Minister Kimmins emphasized. She highlighted the importance of giving driving one’s full attention, as a momentary lapse in focus behind the wheel could have lifelong consequences. Statistics show that inattention is a major factor in collisions resulting in death or serious injury. Kimmins stressed that road safety should be a priority for everyone in society, as the rising number of fatalities on the roads is a cause for concern. Each loss of life leaves behind devastated families, friends, and communities. “We all have a responsibility to ensure the safety of ourselves and others. Using a mobile phone while driving is simply not an option that should be on the table,” she added.
What is being proposed?
The proposal aims to expand the scope of the current mobile phone offence to encompass any use of a handheld mobile phone or other hand-held interactive communication device while driving. The legislation is set to be updated to reflect the technological advancements that have taken place since the initial introduction of the mobile phone offence in 2004. The revised offence would cover the use of other handheld devices capable of interactive communication, such as tablets, electronic notepads, gaming equipment, regardless of whether they are online or offline. The consultation emphasizes that many mobile phones today perform functions that do not involve interactive communication, such as taking photos or searching for stored music. These functions, whether interactive or standalone, are deemed equally dangerous for drivers to engage in while driving.
What are the rules at the moment?
Currently, the offence pertains to hand-held mobile phones and other hand-held interactive communication devices, triggered when a driver uses them for interactive communication functions. The Department is proposing amendments to the legislation so that the offence would apply whenever a driver uses such devices, irrespective of the manner in which they are used. The consultation also introduces an exemption allowing drivers to hold and use a device for making contactless payments at payment terminals under specific circumstances. The term ‘interactive communication’ encompasses communication with another person through voice calls, texting, email, or with the internet.
What would be covered by the new law?
Additional activities that would fall under the revised offence include illuminating the screen, unlocking the device, checking the time or notifications, rejecting a call, composing text messages, taking photos or videos, using the phone’s camera as a mirror, searching for stored music or images, dictating voice messages, reading a book or playing a game downloaded on the phone. The consultation acknowledges the need for exemptions in the legislation due to practical reasons and specific circumstances. An exemption proposed in the consultation is for making a payment using a hand-held mobile phone, particularly for contactless payments at payment terminals while stationary with the vehicle engine running.
What have the PSNI said?
Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Operational Support Department emphasized the importance of reducing road fatalities and serious injuries. He stressed that using a mobile phone while driving is one of the main reasons for road accidents and fatalities. Donaldson urged motorists to prioritize road safety by avoiding distractions like using their phones while driving. The consultation is available for public input, and the Department is open to considering further exemptions based on responses received.
In conclusion, the proposed tougher laws around using handheld mobile phones while driving aim to enhance road safety and reduce accidents caused by distracted driving. It is essential for all drivers to prioritize safety and avoid engaging in activities that could jeopardize their lives and the lives of others on the road. By implementing stricter regulations and penalties, the hope is to create a safer driving environment for everyone.
