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Detection

The government is launched a radio and television campaign to raise awareness about the changes.

But some surveys have suggested that very people are aware that they could be breaking the law come December 1.

Using your phone and driving Using a hand held phone, or one wedged between your shoulder and ear will be illegal while driving or stopped in traffic Fully fitted hands free phones will be legal as they don't need to be picked up to operate them A hand held phone placed in a cradle attached to the car will also be allowed, if used with a suitable headset 2-way radios are exempt, but you should still drive carefully GPS and navigational equipment will still be allowed as long it is not hand held If you get caught, you can expect an on the spot fine of £30, and £1000 fine if your are convicted in court, and £2'500 for driver of buses or goods vehicles Further legislation is expected in the future; that would see the fine increased to £60 and three penalty points

Hands free kits, and dashboard mounted cradles will allow drivers to make calls legally, providing they don't have to pick the phone up.

Police powers

But the Department for Transport says using any type of phone while driving is distracting.

It says: "Drivers should remember that the police can still use existing legislation (for failure to have proper control) if a driver is distracted by a call on a hands-free phone.

"If there is an incident and the driver is using any phone (hand-held or hands-free) or similar device, then there is a risk of prosecution for careless or dangerous driving."

Motoring organisation the RAC has issued its own guidance for any mobile phone call whilst on the road.

It says drivers should avoid getting into intense negotiations, keep calls short and tell callers you are driving, and make sure you've got short cuts programmed into your phone for speed dialling.

What do you think of the new rules about using mobile phones while driving? Email us with your views

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