Driving while using a mobile phone is classified as a serious offense under the General Traffic Regulations, due to the high risk of distraction it poses to the driver and its potential to cause accidents. The economic penalty is set at 200 euros, and point deductions can range from 3 to 6, depending on the severity of the situation.
The DGT specifies that the prohibition covers various situations, such as making calls without a hands-free system, reading or sending messages via applications like WhatsApp, and also the use of headphones, even if only one is worn. Holding the phone manually while driving directly results in the loss of 6 points from the license.
“"A quarter of all traffic accidents are caused by distracted driving or lack of attention."
This regulation not only applies to traditional vehicles but is also mandatory for drivers of Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMV), such as electric scooters. Those who use a mobile phone or headphones while riding a scooter will face the same 200 euro fine. The DGT emphasizes that even a single second of distraction can have serious consequences on the road.
