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Possible prison sentences for couriers caught on mobiles

Couriers could face prison if they are caught using their mobile phone while driving.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) guidance follows a recent policy change after concerns were expressed that couriers, owner drivers and members of the general public were flouting the ban of using mobiles while driving.

While most couriers and other owner drivers will still only face a fine if caught, in cases where the use of the mobile resulted in hazardous actions the CPS will now be able to push for a dangerous driving charge.

This carries a maximum two-year sentence.

"The revised policy also responds to public concern about the dangers of driving while using a mobile phone," explained director of public prosecutions, Sir Ken Macdonald.

"This means that a charge of dangerous driving will now be the starting point for this offence, where there is clear evidence that danger has been caused by its use."

Elsewhere, the new guidance also means that owner drivers and couriers could face dangerous driving charges if caught reading a map while on the road, or for "aggressive driving, such as sudden lane changes, cutting into a line of vehicles, or driving much too close to the vehicle in front".

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