UK Drivers Warned: New £160 Fine for Phone Use Near Schools From August 2025

Starting August 2025, drivers across the UK will need to be extra cautious when behind the wheel near school zones. A new £160 fine will be issued to anyone caught using a mobile phone while driving in designated school zones — a crucial step to enhance safety around educational institutions.

This updated UK phone driving fine regulation aims to reduce accidents caused by distractions and ensure that children can walk to and from school safely.

Why the New Fine Is Being Introduced?

The UK government is prioritizing road safety by cracking down on mobile use in high-risk areas, especially near schools. This is in response to alarming statistics showing increased incidents caused by distracted drivers.

Key reasons behind the new rule:

• School zones are high pedestrian areas with unpredictable movement

• A growing number of accidents are linked to mobile phone use behind the wheel

• Children are among the most vulnerable road users

Breakdown of the New Driving Rule

Here’s a quick overview of what the school zone rule entails:

What Counts as Mobile Use?

It’s important to know what actions will be penalized under this mobile use fine:

• Holding the phone to text, call, or browse

• Using a phone for GPS without a proper hands-free setup

• Interacting with music or apps while in motion or stationary in traffic

• Even glancing at a screen for a moment can trigger the UK phone driving fine

Important: Hands-free devices are allowed, but drivers must not be physically handling the phone.

What Happens If You’re Caught?

Being caught using your phone near a school zone can have serious consequences:

• First Offense: £160 fine + 6 penalty points

• Second Offense: Possible suspension of your driver’s license

• Further Offenses: Risk of prosecution, increased driving penalties, and insurance issues

How to Avoid the Penalty

Avoiding this new mobile use fine is simple if you follow a few mindful driving habits:

Tips to stay safe and compliant:

• Activate “Do Not Disturb” mode before driving

• Mount your phone securely and don’t touch it

• Use voice commands sparingly and only if necessary

• Stop at a safe spot if urgent communication is required

Why School Zones Are Being Prioritized

Children are among the most at-risk road users. The school zone rule is designed to protect them during high-traffic times like morning drop-offs and afternoon pickups.

School zones experience:

• Increased foot traffic

• Unpredictable pedestrian behavior

• Distracted parental drivers during peak hours

By focusing enforcement efforts here, the government aims to create a safer and more responsible driving culture.

FAQs

Q1. Will the £160 fine apply even if I’m stopped in traffic near a school?

Yes. If you’re using your phone while your vehicle is idle but in a marked school zone, you can still be fined under the UK phone driving fine rule.

Q2. Can I use my phone hands-free?

Yes, but only through proper in-car systems. If you touch the phone or get distracted, you risk violating the mobile use fine regulation.

Q3. Are school zone hours fixed or flexible?

The school zone rule generally applies during school start and end hours, which will be clearly indicated on nearby signage.

Q4. What if I’m using the phone only for navigation?

Using GPS is allowed if your phone is mounted. However, adjusting or holding the phone during driving can still lead to driving penalties.

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