While mobile phones have become indispensable tools in our lives, their use while driving poses a serious threat to road safety in Northern Ireland. The temptation to constantly reach for our phones can be difficult to break but doing while driving a vehicle can have potentially tragic consequences that more people need to be made aware of.
In order to bring greater attention to this issue, we will explore the legal implications of using a mobile phone while driving, assess the increased risk of accidents due to distraction, and reveal how you may be entitled to compensation if you have been involved in an accident with a driver using their phone.
1. Mobile Phones and the Law in Northern Ireland
Using a hand-held mobile device while driving is strictly prohibited in Northern Ireland, and for good reason. You are breaking the law if you’re using a hand-held phone to take calls, send messages, or access the internet. Even hands-free phones can cause distraction and should be avoided.
According to NI Direct, if you are caught using a hand-held mobile device while driving or riding, you will receive an automatic fixed penalty notice, which includes six penalty points and a fine of £200. If your case goes to court, you may face disqualification in addition to a maximum fine of £1,000.
New drivers should be aware that if they accumulate six penalty points within two years of passing their test, their licence will be revoked, and they will need to re-sit the driving test to regain it.
The law applies in all driving situations, such as:
- Stopped at traffic lights
- Queuing in traffic
- Making or receiving calls
- Sending or receiving picture and text messages
- Accessing the internet
Please note that this is by no means an exhaustive list. If your mobile phone is in your hands while you’re driving, you’re breaking the law.
2. The Dangers of Distraction: Increased Risk of Accidents
Using a mobile phone while driving is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. According to the road safety charity Brake, using any phone behind the wheel makes you four times more likely to be involved in a crash.
THINK!, a road safety campaign, states that your reaction times are twice as slow if you text and drive using a hands-free phone compared to drunk driving. This increases to three times slower if you use a handheld phone. Even the most careful drivers can become distracted by a call or text, and a split-second lapse in concentration can lead to a crash. At 30 mph, a car travels 100 feet in just 2.3 seconds, leaving little room for error.
3. Injury Claims: When Mobile Phone Use Leads to Accidents
If you have been involved in a car accident in Northern Ireland that was not your fault, and the other driver was using their mobile phone, you may be entitled to make an injury claim. Our compassionate and understanding team at Paschal O’Hare Solicitors can guide you through the process and help you seek the compensation you deserve.
For over half a century, we have been assisting clients in obtaining compensation for accidents caused by others’ negligence. Our extensive experience and dedication to our clients make us the ideal choice for navigating the complex world of personal injury claims in Northern Ireland.
If you or a loved one has been affected by an accident involving someone using a mobile phone while driving, please do not hesitate to contact Paschal O’Hare Solicitors for expert advice and support. We are here to help you on your journey to recovery and justice.
