More than 70,000 drivers across the UK have been fined for using their mobile phones behind the wheel in recent years.
UK drivers fined for using phones behind the wheel
Figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request by Confused.com show that between 2023 and 2025, motorists were handed tens of thousands of penalties - amounting to a total of £14 million in fines.
The data also reveals regional differences in enforcement. Greater Manchester Police issued the highest number of penalties, handing out 11,987 fines, which equates to more than £2.3 million in penalties for drivers in the area.
This was followed by Police Scotland, which issued 7,107 fines totalling £1.42 million, and the Metropolitan Police, which recorded 7,000 offences, resulting in £1.4 million in fines.
Since 2017, anyone caught using a phone while driving faces a £200 fine and six penalty points - enough to automatically revoke the licence of a new driver within their two-year probation period.
Road safety experts warn that despite stricter penalties introduced in recent years, many motorists continue to underestimate the risks.
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.
"Many are unaware of the consequences, and when it’s considered illegal to use their phone behind the wheel."
A recent research has found that more than two in five young drivers admit to reading or sending messages while behind the wheel.
The poll, carried out by Online95 and involving 2,205 UK participants, found that 43% of drivers aged 17-24 had written or read a text message while driving in the past year, despite strict laws banning any handheld phone use.
Road safety charities say the findings show that many young people "struggle to detach themselves from the distractive nature of a smartphone", with texting, social media scrolling and even video calling now widespread among this age group.
The data highlights a generational gap. While 43% of young drivers admitted to reading or writing messages, the figure fell to 29% among 35-44-year-olds, and just 10% for motorists aged 45-54.
The survey also found that 16% of young drivers use instant messaging during at least half of their journeys, and 34% have used a phone to record videos or take photos while driving.