Since 1 December 2003 it has been illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone whilst driving unless calling emergency services on 999 or 112 in a genuine emergency when it is unsafe to stop driving to make a call. It is not permitted to speak or listen to a call on a hand held phone, access any data including Internet, text messages or other images, whilst driving. They cannot be used when in a traffic jam or even to answer to acknowledge a caller before stopping to talk further.

Employers need to be aware that it is an offence to cause or permit a driver not to have proper control of a vehicle. Employers are advised to have a policy on mobile phone usage clearly stating that mobile phones should only be used when the car is stationary, the engine switched off and the car parked in a safe place. The best practice is to suggest that all mobile phones (including hands-free) should be switched off at all times when driving to avoid distraction. The RAC recommends that hands-free phones should only be used for short calls, when traffic conditions make it safe to do so. Drivers should park the vehicle before making any long or distracting calls.