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Drivesafe Car Key

The law

It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone, or similar device that must be held at some point, while driving, riding a motorbike, or supervising a learner.

This includes when you're stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.

Using a hands-free device is not illegal. But if it affects your ability to drive safely, you can still be prosecuted.

If you're an employer, you can be prosecuted if you ask employees to make or receive calls while driving.

The penalties

If you break the law you can expect six points on your driving licence and a £200 fine.

But in certain circumstances your case may go may go to court. You could be disqualified from driving or riding and get a fine of up to £1,000.

If you're a driver of a bus or goods vehicle, you could get a fine of up to £2,500.

If you reach six or more penalty points within two years of passing your test, you'll lose your licence. You’ll need to re-sit your driving test to get your licence back.

If you need to drive for work, you could end up losing your job.

The advice

Greater Manchester Police have increased the number of marked and unmarked vehicles and roadside checks to spot people who break the law.

To avoid temptation, switch off your phone before driving. If you do leave it on, keep it out of reach and, if it rings, find a safe and legal place to stop and call back.

Read more above government advice about mobile phones