England football fans have been warned they could face fines of up to £2,500 tonight if they make a crucial World Cup blunder while driving. Motorists who glance at the score of tonight's match against Ghana on a mobile phone or tablet risk serious penalties, as using a hand-held device behind the wheel is strictly prohibited.
Penalties for phone use while driving
Even briefly checking a device for a matter of seconds to catch up on the latest score could see motorists fined up to £200. In more serious cases, road users could be handed a bill of £1,000 or even £2,500. Paul Gorry, vehicle expert at luxury motorhome manufacturer Auto-Trail, warned: "Checking a score, message or filming may feel like a harmless action, but it's illegal to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet or similar device while driving and drivers caught doing this can receive six penalty points and a £200 fine."
"In serious cases, drivers can also be taken to court, where they could face a maximum fine of £1,000, or £2,500 if they are driving a lorry or bus. They can also receive three penalty points if they do not have a full view of the road and traffic ahead, or proper control of the vehicle," Gorry added.
Safer alternatives for score updates
Motorists desperate to see how Harry Kane and Thomas Tuchel fare in their second World Cup match, after beating Croatia last week, should seek alternative means. Rather than reaching for a phone, tuning into radio commentary and waiting for score updates is perfectly acceptable.
Speeding risks before kick-off
Paul has also warned motorists to think carefully about the dangers of speeding just before 9pm, as they race home to catch the opening kick-off. Those putting their foot down in a desperate attempt to make the start of the match could end up missing far more if they are pulled over for speeding.
Gorry said: "Speeding for kick-off or to reach the pub before the first whistle puts everyone around the driver at risk. The minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fine and three penalty points, but the consequences can become much more serious if drivers already have points on their licence."
"Drivers can be disqualified if they build up 12 or more penalty points within three years, so rushing for a match is never worth risking your licence," he added.
