Tougher laws proposed to ban handheld mobile phone use while driving in Northern Ireland
- Love Ballymena
- May 25
- 3 min read
In a significant move to enhance road safety, Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has launched a 12-week public consultation to strengthen laws surrounding the use of handheld mobile phones and similar devices while driving in Northern Ireland.
The consultation, which opened on 22 May 2025 and runs until 14 August 2025, proposes to make it illegal for drivers to use handheld mobile phones for activities such as taking photos or videos, scrolling through playlists, or playing games.
The proposed legislation aims to update existing laws introduced in 2004, which currently prohibit the use of handheld mobile phones or interactive communication devices while driving, carrying a £200 fine and six penalty points.
The new rules would expand the offence to include any use of such devices, whether online or offline, covering not only mobile phones but also tablets, electronic notepads, and gaming equipment.
Minister Kimmins emphasised the urgency of addressing distracted driving:
“It has been against the law in the north since 2004 to drive while using a handheld mobile phone or similar device. The offence attracts a £200 fine and six penalty points. However, use of mobile technology has changed, and we now need to target those individuals who think it is okay to take photos, videos or scroll on their phone while they are driving a vehicle.”
The minister highlighted the dangers of distracted driving, noting, “Driving is a complex activity requiring a driver’s full attention and the consequences of a lapse in attention behind the wheel could last a lifetime. The statistics show that inattention is a causation factor in the majority of collisions which result in death or serious injury.”
The consultation forms part of the Department for Infrastructure’s Road Safety Strategy Action Plan for 2024/25, launched as part of the broader Road Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland to 2030.
The strategy comes in response to alarming road safety statistics: in 2024, 69 people lost their lives on Northern Ireland’s roads, with hundreds more seriously injured. As of May 2025, 17 fatalities have already been recorded this year.
Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Operational Support Department underscored the critical need for change:
“Using your mobile phone while driving is one of the Fatal Five, the main reasons people are dying on our roads. We ask motorists to follow our advice every time they get behind the wheel of a car - don’t drink or take drugs and drive; slow down, don’t be careless, always wear your seat belt and stay off your phone.”
He added, “The harsh reality is that a moment’s distraction, taking your eye off the road to look at your phone, or to use your phone while driving, can end in tragedy. It’s simply not worth it. Nothing is that important that it can’t wait.”
The proposed law includes a specific exemption allowing drivers to use handheld devices for contactless payments at payment terminals, such as for goods or services, under certain circumstances.
This provision aims to balance practical needs with the overarching goal of reducing distractions.
Minister Kimmins stressed the shared responsibility for road safety:
“Road safety is a priority for me, just as it should be for all of us as a society. The number of people losing their lives on our roads is of great concern. Each death leaves many families, friends and communities devastated. We all have a personal responsibility to behave in a way that keeps ourselves and others safe.”
The public is invited to share their views on the proposals through the consultation, which is accessible online via Citizen Space on the NI Direct website or at the Department for Infrastructure’s consultation page.
Alternatively, responses can be submitted in writing to the Driving, Vehicle & Road Safety Policy Division at James House, Belfast, by 5:00 pm on 14 August 2025.
The consultation also seeks input on updating the Highway Code to reflect the proposed legislative changes, ensuring drivers are fully informed of their responsibilities.
With road safety a pressing concern, the Department for Infrastructure is urging all citizens, including drivers, motorcyclists, legal professionals, and motor insurance representatives, to participate in shaping these critical reforms.
For more information or to respond to the consultation, visit:
As Northern Ireland strives to reduce road deaths and injuries, this proposed law marks a pivotal step towards safer roads for all.
