UK Driving Laws affecting Lone Workers and requiring Handsfree

As the number of lone workers in the UK increases, they need to be aware of the rules and regulations of using lone worker protection systems while driving – as using a solution that is not handsfree may be breaking the law.

The original law for driving with mobile phones was put in place 18 years ago, but smartphone use has drastically increased since 2004. There are many people who need to use their phone for work while in a vehicle, many of those are lone workers, so how have the laws changed?

What are the new laws and how will they affect you?

The updated legislation means you can now be prosecuted for the following smartphone actions while behind the wheel of a car or riding a motorbike:

  • Making a phone call
  • Sending a text message (including WhatsApp messaging and emails)
  • Browsing the internet (including social media)
  • Taking photos
  • Filming
  • Scrolling through a playlist ¹

This means that using any lone worker device that is not handsfree, is breaking the law. The law still applies if you’re:

  • stopped at traffic lights
  • queuing in traffic
  • supervising a learner driver

You can get 6 penalty points and a £200 fine if you use a hand-held phone when driving. You will also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last 2 years.

You can receive 3 penalty points if you don’t have a full view of the road and traffic ahead or proper control of the vehicle. ²

What can you do to avoid fines and points while mainting lone worker protection?

While driving a car or motorbike on British roads, the only way to use a phone is if you have a Bluetooth headset, use voice commands, have a dashboard or windscreen holder/mount or a built-in satnav – this is often called handsfree.

How Ok Alone can help Drivers with Handsfree

Luckily for people who drive for work there are plenty of apps that use voice commands. One such app is the Ok Alone lone worker app. This app lets you check in with your work place or request help without having to touch your phone.

Ok Alone are the first lone worker system to use voice commands to ensure you’re compliant with the laws and help keep you focussed on the road. The app is connected to a dashboard system that allows workers to stay in touch with their supervisors throughout a shift and let them know if there are any problems.

1 – https://www.wlmg.co.uk/news/new-mobile-and-smart-phone-driving-laws-2020/

2 – https://www.gov.uk/using-mobile-phones-when-driving-the-law

Want a quote for Ok Alone? Please email us at info@okalone.net and we will send you a quote for our lone worker solution.