Learner drivers warned as simple mistake could slap passengers with £1,000 fine

dailyrecord.co.uk:

It's a well-known fact that you cannot use your mobile phone when behind the wheel of a car, as it is against the law.But some might not realise that a car passenger also needs to steer clear of using mobile devices in certain circumstances.Speaking to The Mirror, Charlotte Rennox, medical negligence expert at Fletchers Group, urged passengers to never use a phone when accompanying a learner driver.The expert explained: "We know that driving whilst using a phone is illegal and extremely dangerous but did you know that a passenger using their phone could get you fined?"If a passenger uses their phone when supervising a learner driver, you could be hit with a fine up to £1,000 along with six points on your licence.

As the person aiding the learner driver, you are expected to also have full visibility and attention on the road, as if you were the actual driver."Charlotte also shared other ways a passenger could land you a fine.

For example, if you have too many passengers in your car, you could be punished – especially if you have an accident because of it.She explained: "Ultimately, cars shouldn't be carrying more people than they are designed for.

Despite there being no strict laws on your car being filled to the brim with passengers, doing so can seriously invalidate your insurance if caught."Having too many passengers can cause a multitude of distractions for the driver like not being able to see your wing mirrors and creating blind spots, increasing the risks of collisions.