Mobile phone warning to L-driver passengers (From Gazette & Herald)

Mobile phone warning to L-driver passengers

10:09am Wednesday 13th February 2013 in News

A PICKERING woman has urged motorists to be aware they face a fine and penalty points if caught using a mobile phone when supervising a learner driver.

Jennet Raimond was pulled over by a police officer while she was using her phone in the passenger seat.

He told Mrs Raimond it was an offence to use a phone while with an unqualified driver and fined her £60 with three penalty points.

“I have been driving for 28 years and I did not realise that this was illegal. I was absolutely gobsmacked,” she said.

“When I got home I phoned five driving instructors and only two of them knew about it.”

Mrs Raimond said she had been talking on the phone, rather than texting, and was aware of her friend’s driving.

“If it was the first time she had been out on the road then there was no way I would have been on the phone but she has been learning for some time and is ready to pass her test,” she added.

“The officer said he could see I was keeping an eye on the road but that it was illegal to use a mobile with a learner driver.”

Mrs Raimond said she now wanted other people to be aware of the offence.

“I have never been pulled over before or had points on my licence. I was a very unhappy lady and I think others need to know about this so they don’t fall into the same situation,” she said.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “Supervising a learner driver is no different from being behind the wheel yourself.

“You are in charge of the vehicle and have the exact same legal responsibilities to abide by the Highway Code.”