Can it wait? – Ridgeway Training – CPC London

We are all guilty of it. Our mobile phone buzzes, lights up or rings and it’s really quite hard not to take a peep but the question we should really be asking ourselves is, can it wait?
Using mobile phones whilst driving has been an offence since 1 December 2003 and this applies to any kind of phone use, whether this be answering a telephone call, text or email.

Recently, just this last March, the Government doubled the penalties for using a phone (hand held) to a £200 fine as well as 6 points. Drivers that conduct larger vehicles and dedicate themselves to this trade for vocation may be at risk of having their entitlements suspended by the Traffic Commissioner. Newly-qualified driver would automatically lose their license under the points system.

So, is that email or text worth all the hassle and what can you do to prevent yourself using your phone whilst driving?

If you are not expecting any important calls, store your mobile phone in the glove compartment of your vehicle on silent or aeroplane mode and retrieve only when safely parked on the roadside or when pulled over if the call/text is urgent. It is important to remember that if you are caught at stand still at traffic lights or in a traffic jam for example, you are still considered to be committing an offence as these situations still require your full attention on the road and surroundings.

If you are waiting for an urgent call, then perhaps consider starting your journey later or connect your phone to hands-free and pull over to one side should the call require your full attention.

If you are struggling to not use your phone whilst driving there are a few apps that can help you overcome this type of behaviour. One example of this is LifeSaver, available for Android and iOS devices. The RAC offer some good advice and apps on road safety and mobile phones.

Remember, safe driving will help keep you and everyone else on the road safe throughout the journey.

All our courses cover Health and Safety as well as Road Safety. If you have any questions or would like further information on any of our CPC courses, please contact us today on 01293 535850 or via info@ridgewaytraining.co.uk.
Ridgeway Training – it starts with you.

You can also read about rules and regulations for passenger transport in France.