On 1st March, the penalties for using a mobile while driving doubled. Now, if you are caught using your mobile while behind the wheel, you will receive six points and a £200 fine. For new drivers that have been driving for less than two years, this means that their licences will be revoked and that they must retake their practical and theory.
The significant penalty increase is in response to the large number of people that are killed and seriously injured every year as a result of a driver using a mobile—in 2015, such accidents killed 22 people and seriously injured 99.
Review the following guidance to ensure you follow the rules and avoid the consequences.
If you are prosecuted for using your mobile while driving, there are several potential repercussions beyond just the fines and penalties. On average, industry research shows that your premium will increase between 20 and 29 per cent, which is more than the standard 14 per cent for speeding. What’s more, is that nearly one-third of surveyed insurers indicated they would withdraw cover for offenders.
If you are the owner or manager of an organisation that owns a car or an entire fleet for your business operations, the potential repercussions of one or more of your drivers being prosecuted for using a mobile while driving could be severe. For example, your insurer could decide that cover could be too great of a risk and invalidate your insurance—especially if driving with a mobile led to a dangerous driving offence. Not only would that make it difficult to find another insurer willing to take on your organisation’s risk, but your premiums would also be much higher.
To ensure that your employees act responsibly while behind the wheel, considering implementing the following best practices:
For more safe driving tips, contact Geoffrey Simmons Insurance Consultants LLP at 01474 359117 today.
Geoffrey Simmons Insurance Consultants LLP
35/36 Windmill Street, Gravesend, Kent DA12 1AS
Tel: 01474 359117/8
Fax: 01474 567852
E-mail: info@thegsigroup.co.uk