Complete Mobile Phone Ban While Driving: The Safest Choice for All
In today’s world, mobile phones have become essential tools for daily life. However, for fleet decision-makers, they represent a growing challenge.
Research consistently shows that drivers using mobile phones—whether handheld or hands-free—are four times more likely to be involved in a crash. These drivers also demonstrate reduced hazard detection abilities and slower reaction times.
“Contrary to popular belief, the human brain doesn’t function like a computer with parallel processing capabilities,” explains Gemma Briggs, Professor of Applied Cognitive Psychology at The Open University. “We don’t manage two tasks simultaneously; instead, we switch between them. This switch causes a brief delay, known as a resumption lag, when we return to the original task.”
Briggs points out that during this lag, our brains are so adept at filling in the gaps that we might feel as though everything is fine. “You won’t realize something is amiss until an unexpected event occurs, like a crash,” she warns.
This phenomenon leads to what is known as inattentional blindness, where drivers fail to see hazards directly in front of them, even when they are looking right at them. “In some of our lab studies, we’ve placed hazards directly in the line of sight of participants—tracking their eye movements to confirm they’re looking at the danger—yet they fail to notice it,” Briggs adds.
The core issue with mobile phone use while driving, according to Briggs, is cognitive distraction. Engaging in conversation, especially on a phone, demands mental resources that are also necessary for accurately perceiving and responding to driving conditions. Conference calls are even more hazardous, as multiple voices can significantly increase this distraction.
“The mental energy required to visualize what someone is describing or doing during a conversation is the same energy needed for safe driving,” Briggs notes. “This distraction lingers for about five minutes after ending a call. So, it’s not just about physically holding or looking at a phone—the distraction is lasting.”
The Law on Mobile Phone Use While Driving
As of 2022, it is illegal to hold and use a phone, sat-nav, tablet, or any device capable of sending or receiving data while driving. This law applies even if the vehicle is stationary, whether at traffic lights, in a queue, or when the engine is off.
Drivers caught breaking this law face six penalty points and a £200 fine. Those who passed their driving test within the past two years will lose their license. Additionally, drivers can receive three penalty points if they lack full control of the vehicle or a clear view of the road. Severe cases may result in a court appearance, a driving ban, and a maximum fine of £1,000 (£2,500 for lorry or bus drivers).
While the law permits the use of hands-free devices as long as they are not held, this exception is problematic. According to Briggs, hands-free phone use is just as dangerous as using a handheld device. “Legally, hands-free use is permitted, leading many to believe it is safe and responsible,” she says. “But scientifically, it doesn’t matter whether it’s handheld or hands-free—you’re still four times more likely to be involved in a collision.”
Implementing a Zero-Tolerance Policy
Balfour Beatty has taken a strong stance by banning both handheld and hands-free phone use while driving. Employees are instructed to inform callers via voicemail that they are driving and to only check messages or make calls once safely parked.
Adrian Wanford, Group Compliance Manager for Balfour Beatty Group Transport, explains the process: “We secured top-level support for this policy, which was crucial. Then came the hard work of updating our vehicle and driver policies and communicating these changes through various channels, including toolbox talks, briefing sessions, and e-learning modules.”
Drivers are advised to turn off their phones and store them in the trunk during trips. If calls are necessary, they should plan them for pre-arranged stops.
Enforcement is key to the success of such a policy. “Companies with effective phone bans often enforce them strictly, even at the highest levels,” says Briggs. “I’ve heard of cases where senior staff members were dismissed for violating the rules. This firm approach, combined with regular reminders about the importance of the policy, tends to be most effective.”
Briggs also emphasizes the need for a clear mechanism allowing drivers to report violations without fear of retaliation, especially if a manager contacts them while they are driving. “It’s essential that everyone understands the rules and that there are systems in place to support compliance,” she concludes.
Get in Touch
If you want to learn more or have any questions, feel free to contact us directly at 01274 597748 or email us at sales@satmo.co.uk our other blog posts are also available here: https://satmo.co.uk/blog/
