Shocking footage of a serving police officer using their phone 'at the wheel' has triggered exasperation from members of the public who say it's "one rule for us and another one for them"
A police officer filmed 'using their phone at the wheel' has drawn criticism, with observers noting 'one rule for them and another for everyone else'. Pedestrians were perplexed upon noticing a police car parked at a crash site in Knottingley, Wakefield.
Passersby and locals were astonished to realize that the vehicle's ignition was on with the engine running, and an officer was on their mobile phone, which is illegal. The incident, where two officers in the car appeared to be using their mobile phones, was captured on camera, sparking frustration and anger among members of the public.
The footage captured seemingly showed the officer engaging with Facebook. Neither of the officer's hands appeared to be on the steering wheel, as they failed to notice the person recording who had approached unnoticed.
The footage has garnered over 10 million views on TikTok.
One individual commented, "Best read the Highway Code... it's a £200 fine and six points... and a likely increase in your insurance." Another remarked, "As usual, one rule for us and another for them. But that's the way it goes."
In response, the police stated, "We don't have anything to add at this stage."
The Law on Using Your Phone Behind the Wheel: It is illegal for motorists to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device capable of sending or receiving data while driving or riding a motorcycle. This means drivers must not use a handheld device for any reason, whether online or offline. The law applies even if motorists are stopped at traffic lights, queuing in traffic, supervising a learner driver, driving a car that turns off the engine when stationary, or holding and using a device that’s offline or in flight mode.
Drivers can only use a device in case of an emergency or if they need to call 999 or 112, and it's deemed unsafe or impractical to stop. Other acceptable instances include using a hand-held device when the vehicle is safely parked, or when making a contactless payment in a stationary vehicle, for example, at a drive-through restaurant.
Motorists in the UK can use devices with hands-free access, provided they do not hold them at any time during usage. Hands-free access includes using a Bluetooth headset, voice command, a dashboard holder or mat, a windscreen mount, or a built-in sat nav.
Importantly, the device must not obstruct the view of the road and traffic ahead. Drivers should be aware that they can receive six penalty points and a £200 fine if they hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send and receive data while driving or riding a motorcycle. They also risk losing their license if they passed their driving test in the last two years.
