UK drivers told do not touch phones 3pm next Sunday regardless of temptation

UK drivers are being reminded not to touch their phones at 3pm next weekend - or face six points and a £200 fine. The government will test its emergency alert system on Sunday, September 7, with a loud, siren-like sound emitting from phones and tablets.

However, drivers have been cautioned not to react to the distraction if they’re behind the wheel during the 10-second drill. Graham Conway, of UK vehicle leasing firm Select Car Leasing, issued a word of warning regarding the upcoming alert, no matter how tempting it may be to turn it off and touch your phone while behind the wheel.

He said: "The government’s emergency alert system is a vital tool in letting people know if there is a life-threatening danger nearby. It’s important that tests are carried out to ensure the system works as it should.

READ MORE: UK drivers warned accepting petrol money from friends could trigger £2,500 fine

READ MORE: Drivers warned social media 'car wash trend' could lead to thousands in repair bills

“But the rules of the road still stand. Motorists who are driving at the time of the test, at 3pm next Sunday, should not read or respond to the alert as it’s illegal to use a mobile while driving. Being caught using a hand-held device when behind the wheel could mean a fine of £200 and six points on your licence.”

Around three million people across Wales and south‑west England received the message, which warned of dangerous and potentially life‑threatening conditions. During the national test on September 7, mobile phones will vibrate and emit a loud siren‑like sound for up to ten seconds.

A test message will appear on screens, making it clear the alert is a drill. Mobile phones connected to 4G and 5G networks will receive the alert

The system is designed to warn people if there is a danger-to-life emergency nearby, such as a severe weather event. The message on Sunday will read: “This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby.

“You do not need to take any action. In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe. Find simple and effective advice on how to prepare for emergencies at gov.uk/prepare.”

The government recommends motorists find somewhere safe and legal to stop before reading the message. It’s the second time the national system for alerts will be tested, following a similar roll out in 2023.

Mr Conway continued: “Being distracted by a mobile phone while you’re driving dramatically impacts your reaction time and can increase your risk of a crash. This isn’t just about points and fines - it’s about preventing avoidable tragedies. Keep all phones out of sight and reach before you start your engine to keep distractions to a minimum.”

What is and isn't allowed when it comes to your phone and driving: What is illegal to do:

• Holding and using a phone for any reason, including taking photos, texting, browsing the web, or playing games.
• Using a phone for calls, even with hands-free, if you are not in proper control of the vehicle.
• Touching a phone while driving, even if it is in a mount.

When it is permitted:

• Using a hands-free device, such as Bluetooth or a cradle-mounted device, for navigation or music.
• Making a 999 or 112 emergency call in a situation where it's unsafe or impractical to stop.

Consequences of illegal use can include a £200 fine, six penalty points on your licence and higher insurance premiums. It may also mean you lose your licence if you are a new driver who receives six penalty points within two years of passing the test. Plus, prosecution, a large fine, and up to two years in prison for careless or dangerous driving due to distraction.