On 1 March 2017, the government has introduced 3 new motoring laws that every driver needs to know about.
Mobile Phones
There has been a lot of publicity about the first one, that is the increased penalties for a driver using their mobile phone behind the wheel.
We have written about this issue a lot, however, 1 March 2017 hails the doubling of the penalties for mobile phone usage from 3 penalty points and a £100 fine, to 6 penalty points and a £200 fine.
Police nationwide, are launching a week-long campaign to clamp down on the issue of distracted driving in light of the very high profile and tragic cases of fatal accidents being caused by drivers on their mobile phones.
It should be noted that new drivers, who only passed their driving test within 2 years, face having their driving licences revoked if they are caught on their phones.
Internet Devices
Interestingly, the new legislation is not only aimed at mobile phones, but “any internet device”, so any phone, tablet, computer or other internet enabled device comes under the new laws.
Police have reported an increasing number of drivers being caught messaging, using social media and even live streaming as they are driving.
Drivers should also note that being stationary in traffic or at a junction does not mean they can use their devices. You need to be safely parked off the road.
Child Seats
As of 1 March 2017, legal changes for the use of child seats in cars have been introduced.
It means that cushion booster seats can only be used with older children with younger ones requiring an appropriate child seat.
Any child under 125cm (4 ft 1 inch) in height and less than 22kg (3.5 stone) must use a child seat with a back, not just a cushion booster seat. It should be noted that children under 135cm (4ft 4 inches) or under the age of 12 must continue to use an appropriate child seat.
The reason behind the change is backless car seats offer much less protection in the event of a crash and can increase the risk of serious harm or a fatality in younger children.
Anyone caught not using an appropriate child seat could face a £100 fine.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
