More than 70,000 motorists have been fined a total of £14 million over the past three years for using their mobile phones while driving, according to data obtained by Confused.com. The figures, covering 2023 to 2025, reveal that enforcement peaked in 2024 when 27,712 drivers were penalised in a single year.
Greater Manchester Police issued the highest number of fines, with 11,987 penalties totalling over £2.3 million. Police Scotland came second with 7,107 fines worth £1.4 million, followed by the Metropolitan Police with 7,000 fines equating to £1.4 million.
Despite the ban on handheld phone use while driving, which has been in place since 2003 and carries a £200 fine and six penalty points, a separate survey found that 59% of drivers admitted to using their handset at the wheel. The most common reasons included answering calls (42%) and using navigation apps (40%).
Matt Crole-Rees, motoring expert at Confused.com, said: '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.'
The survey also revealed that 48% of drivers felt comfortable using their phone when stationary at traffic lights or in a queue, while 26% admitted to doing so in stop-start traffic. Most offenders (81%) were caught by police officers, with 26% detected by AI camera technology.
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.'
