UK Mobile Phone Usage Whilst Driving

We live in a world where we have become dependent on the use of mobile phones. Whether it be for work, personal, social or general use – it is a device we feel attached to. It usually tends to be the first thing people check when they wake up and the last thing they see before going to sleep. So here at Click4Reg, we decided it was time to put together a useful and necessary guide on the UK mobile phone usage whilst driving.

Why The Addiction?
Ofcom research astoundingly found that 37% of UK adults admit to feeling ‘highly addicted’ to their mobile phones.

Research by Dr. Lee Hadlington, a Senior Academic at De Montfort University, believes that the sensation of ‘fear of missing out’ (FOMO) is the leading reason why people have the constant tendency to keep check their mobile phones. He explains:

“Constantly checking a smartphone can lead to rewards, and this links into internal level reinforcement. This ‘reward’ system, such as receiving messages from friendsand family, or somebody sharing new content, makes that person feel good.”

This notion is perhaps unsurprising when considering research by Deloitte found that not only 81% of adults in the UK own a smartphone but collectively as nation, we look at our mobile phones over one billion times a day.

addiction-to-phones-whilst-driving

Photo Credit: Daxiao Productions / Shutterstock

Using Mobile Phones Whilst Driving Clearly Defined
When people conjure up their definition of driving, more often than not it is associated with their vehicle moving. However, with respect to using a mobile phone whilst driving, the context is much broader. When in a stationary position, whether it be due to traffic lights or being in congestion, the engine is still on therefore it is still considered ‘driving’. With this in mind, mobile phone usage is also prohibited whenever the vehicle is in stationary positions throughout the journey.

Risks of Using Mobile Phone Whilst Driving

According to 2014 figures from the Department of Transport, drivers being distracted or impaired by their mobile phone was the contributing factor in 492 accidents. 21 were classified as ‘fatal’ and 84 as ‘serious’.

Other research has also shown those motorists who text whilst driving have a 35% slower reaction time. Additionally, studies have demonstrated those drivers who perform secondary tasks whilst driving are three times more likely to crash.

Important DVLA information

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, or DVLA, sees all aspects of personalised number plates across the UK. Created in 1965, above all, the DVLA is integral in controlling passenger vehicles. From managing drivers and road tax, the DVLA protects our roads. As one of the highest profile government agencies today, our roads may look different without them. In short, we work with them daily. However, it is important to note that we do not affiliate with them.

DVLA is a registered trademark of the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency. Click4Reg is not affiliated to the DVLA or DVLA Personalised Registrations. Click4Reg is a recognised reseller of DVLA registrations

Number plate law

As responsible agents, we prioritise following the law. It is now mandatory for customers to provide a V948 certificate issued by the DVLA before purchasing a number plate to verify their entitlement. These are valuable assets and essential features of cars that criminals can duplicate to create a false identity, which is a common practice among them. Therefore, we advise visitors to exercise extra caution when obtaining cherished registrations.

Number plates must be road-legal and readable. It’s essential to keep the positioning and spacing of the characters the same. They Must use reflective materials with black characters on a white background for the front plate. Also for the rear plates, they must have black characters on a yellow background. They cannot have patterns.

A number plate must measure 524mm x 112mm and can display up to 7 digits. Standard 4×4 rear plates measure 285mm x 203mm and with a standard front plate. Larger vehicles such as Jaguars and Porsches require a larger rear plate measuring 533mm x 152mm. But still use the stock front plate size.