It was revealed recently that Fines and points are to double for drivers caught using mobile phones. We have listed 10 actions you could face by using a mobile phone behind the wheel.

1. Heavy fine

2. Increase insurance premiums

3. Loss of licence if passed test less than 2 years

4. Possible loss of job if depends on driving

5. Could affect job promotion or change of career

6. Serious injury to either party causing financial burden and hardship

7. Depression due to nature of using mobile phones

8. Loss of respect to yourself and from others

9. Increase in public transport burden if banned

10. Jail if convicted for injury or death carrying up to a life sentence period (when new law becomes effective march 2017)

Since 2003, it’s been illegal to use a handheld mobile device while driving. It’s still legal use a hands-free kit if your phone is in a cradle, but you can still be stopped if this distracts you and causes you to drive carelessly.

When the law was first introduced, the penalty fine was just £30. In 2007 this was increased to £60. The current penalty for using a mobile phone while driving, which was introduced in 2013, is a £100 fine and 3 penalty points — although some first-time offenders are offered a remedial course instead.

Under the new plans, the remedial course would be scrapped so drivers would face a compulsory fine and penalty points. The penalties would also double, with the fine increasing to £200 and the penalty points going from 3 to 6.

Currently, novice drivers (who have passed their test in the last two years) can be disqualified after receiving 6 points instead of the usual 12. Under the new plans, this could mean an immediate ban for novice drivers after one mobile phone driving offence. (information source www.uswitch.com)

If you need to make a call in a car please use a hands-free kit or bluetooth. If it is not an emergency please wait until you have finished driving to use your mobile phone.

Stay safe!

John Dixon – Aspiration Driving School

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‘Winter is coming’ and soon the roads will be icy and more hazardous! There are lots you can do to help yourself through the winter period SO we have created a winter bucket list to help you!

Winter driving bucket list

• Flask
• Non-perishable nibbles
• Phone charger+ fully charged mobile + sat nav
• Warm blanket, spare clothes, hat, gloves
• Book to read
• Make sure you are a member of a breakdown service and their number is left in car with membership number
• Winter check by a garage (normally free only a charge if something needs to be done) spare mixed coolant
• Windscreen wash
• Winter tyres but removed in spring
• Let people know your destination and approx time of arrival
• Ensure you taking note of major road signs landmarks in case of breakdown on phone or sat nav locate my location button in advance
• Keep windows closed as much as you can and doors locked.
• Anyone approaches ask for I.D if unsure if police or breakdown ring for verification.
• Braking distance should be up to 10 times more than normal in severe weather
• If severe weather please don’t drive.

If you have never driven in winter weather why not get a 2 hr course to give you the experience www.aspirationdriving.co.uk or call us on 0191 500 9775

More tips on driving in bad weather.

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Owning a car can be expensive, in many cases it comes second to owning or running your house. Here are some useful tips for keeping costs down!

What you will need

Once you’ve passed your driving test you’ll need the following before you can legally drive your car on the road.

Car insurance

This can be expensive so remember to shop around! Look our for offers or incentives that will reduce your insurance such as having a Smartbox fitted.

Car tax

Car tax is no longer transferable so you will need to tax your vehicle before using it. Costs rise from £0 to £1000 per year. Always worth checking car tax before you buy your car.

MOT

MOT is a yearly test for all cars over three years old. Always shop around for MOT prices and remember the government has set a limit of £54.85 to MOT a car.

Running costs

Fuel

Try to determine how many miles you’ll cover and therefore the best fuel or engine type to suit. Generally, the bigger the engine the more fuel it will use! And being careful with your driving by not accelerating aggressively will conserve fuel. Remove heavy items in your car if you’re not using them, again this will reduce fuel bills.

Servicing and maintenance

The RAC calculated that it costs around £472 to maintain a used car for one year. Remember to factor this in and shop around for servicing and repairs.

Breakdown

It happens! Even in new cars. Always take out breakdown cover and be certain you know exactly what you are covered for.

Depreciation

When you buy a car, check out what it might be worth in a few years’ time. Some cars lose money faster than others.

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