Mobile Phone and the Law

[alancdavis]

We all know and would never condone the use of a mobile phone when driving but it seems that it is ok to use a two way radio ?????, What are peoples thoughts on this ?

[Gremlin]

You are allowed to use emergency radio equipment when you are driving, this covers the emergency services and also amateur radio equipment. If you are seen using any other types of radio equipment when driving the police can get you under the distracted while driving which covers anything other than driving the vehicle.

[alancdavis]

Been looking in to this and it seems if you are sat in a car park in the drivers seat and use your phone you can be prosicuted ,,

[katana]

Been looking in to this and it seems if you are sat in a car park in the drivers seat and use your phone you can be prosicuted ,,

That may be the letter of the law but I'd think it would be difficult for a prosecution to succeed. Bit like being drunk and asleep in the car with keys in pocket - technically illegal as you 'could' drive but weren't.

[alancdavis]

Should have added that applies if the key is in the ignition ,,, So if you follow the letter of the law and whilst driving your phone rings and you pull over into a layby to answer it you need to remove the keys before you answer

[Miniliteman]

Maybe they should forbid smoking whilst driving also and arguiing with the wife as both leads to less concentrated driving ...

[alancdavis]

Beats me why they allow you to use a two way radio ,,is that not a hand held device

[katana]

I guess if they did then the Police would be 'up the creek without a paddle' as pretty much all their communication is via radios clipped to their shoulders - can't have one rule for them and one for the pondlife! It is a nonsense situation but as a CB'er from back in the day I don't think I ever heard or read about an accident caused due to radio use..... obviously in the days before the mobile was invented! Funnily enough the Police seem to have a fair few accidents - wonder if any of those could be pinned on distraction whilst driving / using radio ! ! !

[alancdavis]

Some interesting reading on this site

https://leics.police.uk/contact-us/faq/Q659

[archermav]

Most cops have their radios "pinned" to their stab vests. So, whilst they are being used they are not being held.

[RS2000CUSTOM]

Should have added that applies if the key is in the ignition ,,, So if you follow the letter of the law and whilst driving your phone rings and you pull over into a layby to answer it you need to remove the keys before you answer

How does that work with the latest "keyless" cars as there is no ignition lock ? - lol

[alancdavis]

Very good point

[Bda]

I think if you're pulled over in a layby with the handbrake on, you can't be deemed to be driving, so what does it matter if the engine is running to stop you freezing to death?!

[alancdavis]

Some over eager policemen may argue that you are in control of the vehical.

[Rallye]

Just don't do it - full stop. Ambiguity or mitigation, it's you who goes to prison if found guilty.

Simples