Over half (57%) of UK van drivers still physically check their mobile phones while driving, according to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ research. This is despite the most recent update to Regulation 110 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, banning the use of all handheld devices behind the wheel and an increased fine of £200 fine and six penalty points.
While the proportion of van drivers checking their phones has reduced by 7% versus 2023 – in which 64% of UK van drivers confessed to checking their phones – 1 in 10 still admit to not only doing so while driving, but doing so “often”, while a recently released Department for Transport survey found that van drivers are more than twice as likely to use their mobile phone while driving, compared to all other types of drivers.
VW’s research confirmed that the decision to ignore mobile phone driving laws is not the result of a lack of available hands-free technology. In fact, 98% of respondents stated that their vans have in-built technology to support hands-free driving, with almost all (93%) using the technology at least once during the working day.
It’s not clear what’s causing so many drivers to continue breaking the law, but the company is urging van drivers to go hands-free while on the road. As the hours UK van drivers spend in their vehicles continue to increase – rising from an average 4.88 hours per day in 20222, to 6.24 hours in 2023 – it’s more important than ever that drivers make the most of the technology available. Doing so not only improves road safety, but also allows drivers to work on the go.
To optimise customer convenience and safety, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles fits a Bluetooth hands-free kit as standard across all its models. Paired with its range of digital services – including We Connect and App-Connect – which enable drivers to make calls, access apps and navigate via voice control, drivers can get back to business all without taking their eyes off the road.
For more details on Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ award-winning range of products and services, or to find your nearest Van Centre, please visit: www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk
