Car passengers risk being 'caught out' and fined £1,000 over strict phone rule

On long cartrips, it's common for passengers to while away the hours on their mobile phones.

Typically, you'll find the person in the front seat staring at their phone screen - nothing out of the ordinary. In most instances, this behaviour is perfectly fine and doesn't break any rules - but there are times when passengers could find themselves in trouble.

While drivers are strictly prohibited from using their mobiles, it's not widely known that passengers can also face fines under certain conditions. The likeliest situation for this to happen is if a passenger distracts the driverwith their phone, maybe trying to show something on the screen or playing music or videos too loudly.

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Fines can soar up to £1,000 if police conclude that the passenger's mobile use has distracted the driver. A spokesperson from BigWantsYourCar.com said: "Most drivers are aware that touching a phone while driving is illegal, but many do not realise that passengers could also be fined.

"If a passenger's phone use distracts the driver – whether through loud notifications, videos, or conversation – police can take action, and penalties can be severe."

A specific situation where passengers are forbidden from using phones is when they are driving instructors. They must keep their attention on the road at all times, as their role is to supervise and guide learner drivers, reports Chronicle Live.

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Drivers ought to mount phones in proper holders when utilising them for navigation. Nevertheless, there's still a risk if the device is placed improperly and obstructs their view.

The motoring expert remarked: "Placing a phone on the dashboard or windscreen in a way that blocks visibility can lead to a fine of £1,000 and three penalty points. Drivers should keep their mobile mounted securely so it doesn't interfere with their ability to see the road ahead."

In other words, be cautious when using your phone and avoid distracting the driver unless the car has been completely stopped and away from any other moving vehicles. Although it might not sound like a life-threatening action, those behind the wheel must keep their eyes and ears focused on the road at all times until they reach their final destination.

Better to be safe than sorry, right?