Motorists in the UK have been fined a staggering £14 million over the past three years for using their mobile phones while driving. Data obtained by Confused.com through a Freedom of Information request reveals that more than 70,000 drivers were penalized between 2023 and 2025 for flouting the law, which has prohibited handheld phone use while driving since 2003.
Regional Breakdown of Fines
Greater Manchester Police issued the highest number of fines, with 11,987 penalties amounting to over £2.3 million. Police Scotland followed closely with 7,107 fines totaling £1,421,400, while the Metropolitan Police handed out 7,000 fines worth £1,400,000. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Police and Surrey Police also featured prominently, with 6,322 and 5,145 fines respectively.
Enforcement Peaks in 2024
The data shows that enforcement peaked in 2024, when 27,712 drivers were fined in a single year. Despite the risks and penalties, phone use behind the wheel remains widespread. A separate survey by OnePoll.com found that 59% of drivers admitted to using their mobile while driving, with those aged 25 to 44 being the most likely offenders (54%).
Common Reasons for Phone Use
According to the survey, 42% of drivers used their phones to answer calls, while 40% used navigation apps. Additionally, 23% made calls in emergencies, and the same percentage read texts. Many drivers felt comfortable using their phones when stationary at traffic lights (48%) or in start-stop traffic (26%).
Repeat Offenders and Detection Methods
Motorists who had been caught admitted to being penalized twice on average. However, 84% of offenders said they had never been caught, despite the offence carrying six penalty points and fines that can rise to £1,000 if prosecuted. Most offenders were spotted by a police officer (81%), while 26% were caught by AI camera technology.
Matt Crole-Rees, motoring expert at Confused.com, emphasized the dangers: “Using your mobile phone when driving is not only illegal, but it can be dangerous for people in the car, on the roads, and pedestrians. While it could seem innocent to quickly go on your phone if your car is in traffic or at a standstill, it’s not worth the risk.”
A spokesperson for Confused.com added: “The findings showed phone use had become a routine habit for many drivers. While you are allowed to use your phone for navigation, it is a legal requirement to pull over wherever it is safe and turn off the engine if you need to make adjustments. Otherwise, even touching your phone can result in receiving fines or points.”
