Drivers will not get fined for using phones at drive-thrus

Drivers will not be fined for using their phones at drive-thru restaurants despite new mobile phone Highway Code rules. However, motorists will be fined for touching their phones to take photos or videos, scroll through the internet or pay for items while driving.Previously, motorists could only be punished if they sent a text or made a phone call using a handheld device.Some motorists have therefore mistakenly believed they could be hit with tougher penalties for using their phones to pay at drive-thru restaurants and road tolls.However, drivers are actually exempt from fines in these areas as long as their vehicle is stable.In a statement at the end of last year, the Department for Transport confirmed an exemption for drive-through restaurants and road tolls would be introduced.READ MORE: Cyclists warned riding in the middle of the road is ‘daft’ Drivers will not be fined for using mobile phones at a drive thru. (Image: Getty)But they warn this will only cover payments using debit cards and a card reader meaning motorists cannot make Amazon or eBay payments while waiting for their orders.The new loophole was launched to ensure the rule ‘keeps pace with technology’ on the roads.They said: ‘There will be an exemption to the new law for drivers making a contactless payment using their mobile phone while stationary to ensure the law keeps pace with technology.”This exemption will cover, for example, places like a drive-through restaurant or a road toll, and will only apply when payment is being made with a card reader.DON’T MISS Car insurance policies could be invalidated by window issues [INSIGHT] Drivers urged to follow specific winter tips to ensure safety [ADVICE] Motorists risk huge fines for using a common fuel-saving technique [FINE]  drivers are exempt from fines in drive thrus as long as their vehicle is stable. (Image: Getty) The UK’s most dangerous regions to drive in. (Image: EXPRESS)’Using hands-free equipment is also likely to distract your attention from the road.’The changes were introduced after a public consultation.The poll found that 81 percent supported changes to make it easier to penalise drivers using their mobiles.