New laws – to toughen up the government’s stance on dangerous driving – are being introduced throughout the UK.
From 27 June 2007, drivers in Northern Ireland will face the same penalties as the rest of the UK.
Using a handheld phone while driving will be liable to three penalty points.
And a fine of £60 (rising to £1000 on conviction).
Drivers of heavy goods vehicles will face a maximum fine of £2500.
Drivers who fail to wear a seat belt will also be targeted with three penalty points.
A survey of business drivers in England found that 7% continued to use a handheld mobile while driving.
And 70% of business car drivers continued to make calls while driving.
Leasing company Arval, which conducted the survey, warned that drivers using a handsfree kit could also be fined if the vehicle was deemed to be ‘out of control’.
“Best practice is to encourage your drivers to take breaks. Then they can make calls and listen to messages,” commented Mike Waters, head of market analysis, Arval.
Further information
- More detail on the Road Safety Act can be found in the Business Car Manager Law & Tax section: www.businessmotoring.co.uk.
- There is also a Business Car Manager factsheet which can be downloaded from the Knowledge Bank. Clcik on the Knowledge Bank banner to access it.
New measures to prevent dangerous driving
