Drivers to be penalised for breaking amended Highway Code rules under new proposals - 'People are dying'

The planned legislation would make it an offence to use any handheld device while driving, such as taking photos, scrolling through playlists or playing games, even when at a red light.

The current law prohibits drivers from using handheld phones for making calls or sending texts, with offenders facing a £200 fine and six penalty points.

Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk

However, the NI Government noted that due to technology evolving significantly since the rules were put in place in 2004, there have been more loopholes in the existing legislation.

Under the proposed changes, the offence would be triggered when a driver uses a handheld device for any purpose, regardless of whether it involves interactive communication.

"We now need to target those individuals who think it is okay to take photos, videos or scroll on their phone while they are driving a vehicle," said Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins.

The expanded law would also cover other handheld devices capable of interactive communication, such as tablets, electronic notepads, and gaming equipment, whether they are online or offline at the time of use.

The Highway Code would also be updated to reflect these changes, with amendments to Rule 149 to clarify the expanded scope of the offence.

The current rule states: "You MUST exercise proper control of your vehicle at all times. You MUST NOT pick up the phone or similar device while driving to dial a number and then put it in the cradle for the duration of the conversation. You MUST NOT pick up and use your hand-held phone or similar device while stationary in traffic."

The Department for Infrastructure noted that the "physical manipulation, cognitive demands and visual distraction" can be equally dangerous whether a driver is texting or simply searching for music stored on their phone.

Kimmins stated: "Road safety is a priority for me, just as it should be for all of us as a society. The number of people losing their lives on our roads is of great concern. Each death leaves many families, friends, and communities devastated."

"We all have a personal responsibility to behave in a way that keeps ourselves and others safe. Holding and using a mobile phone for any purpose while driving should not be an option for a driver using our roads."

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:

• UK town returns roads to 30mph for first time in two years amid end of 20mph limits - 'Necessary change'
• Labour tipped to scrap 'luxury' car tax for popular vehicles in Autumn Budget impacting millions of drivers
• Drivers handed three-year deadline for 'car tax advantages' before facing '100%' cost hike

According to reports, 69 people lost their lives on Northern Ireland's roads in 2024, with hundreds more seriously injured. So far this year, 17 people have already died in road accidents.

Meanwhile, Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Operational Support Department warned: "Using your mobile phone while driving is one of the Fatal Five, the main reasons people are dying on our roads.

"The harsh reality is that a moment's distraction, taking your eye off the road to look at your phone, or to use your phone while driving, can end in tragedy. It's simply not worth it. Nothing is that important that it can't wait."

But the proposed changes would allow some exemptions, including allowing drivers to use a handheld device to make contactless payments when stationary.

Drivers would still be permitted to use phones as sat navs if secured in a cradle, but would not be allowed to pick them up while driving, even when stopped at traffic lights or in traffic jams.

The consultation period will run until August 14, giving the public an opportunity to share their views on the expanded legislation.