Drivers could face tougher mobile phone enforcement as support grows for AI cameras

Published: September 24, 2026 at 2:26 PM

Four in five people support wider use of technology to catch motorists using their phones behind the wheel

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Drivers could soon face tougher enforcement for using mobile phones at the wheel, as new research reveals strong public support for AI-powered cameras designed to catch offenders.

Car insurance experts at our partner Quotezone are urging motorists to think twice before reaching for their phones, as new camera technology is introduced in Scotland and support grows for similar measures across the rest of the UK.

New camera technology is being deployed in Scotland for the first time to monitor the number of drivers using mobile phones behind the wheel.*

Compare quotes for car insurance with Quotezone in partnership with Radio Times

And there appears to be strong public backing for the technology, with 81% of Brits saying the rest of the UK should follow suit.

The research also suggests distracted driving could be becoming more common, with 54% of drivers saying they have noticed an increase in other motorists using mobile phones.

How many drivers admit to using their phones?

Despite the risks and the existing laws, some motorists admit they still occasionally reach for their phones while driving.

While 65% say they never use their phone behind the wheel, others admit to making quick checks for maps (10%) or answering or rejecting calls (9%).

Smaller numbers say they use their phones at traffic lights because they are bored (3%), check notifications (3%), change music (2%) or even send texts (1%).

The findings come as authorities explore tougher enforcement measures to tackle dangerous driving behaviours.

In England, using a mobile phone while driving can result in six penalty points and a £200 fine. Drivers who receive six points within two years of passing their test will automatically lose their licence.**

Would you challenge someone using their phone?

There is evidence that passengers are increasingly prepared to speak up about dangerous driving.

Nearly three quarters (73%) of people surveyed by our partner Quotezone said they would call out a driver for using their phone while driving.

But the consequences of being caught can extend beyond a fine and penalty points.

Motorists who are convicted of using their phones behind the wheel could also face higher insurance premiums for years to come, as insurers may consider penalty points and convictions evidence of increased risk.

Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO at our partner Quotezone, said: “Using a mobile phone while driving remains one of the most dangerous distractions on the road, yet research shows many drivers are still guilty of quick checks.

“With AI cameras being introduced to detect offenders, motorists should expect enforcement to become much stricter in the coming years. A single conviction for mobile phone use can lead to six penalty points, a fine, and higher insurance premiums.

“It’s encouraging to see that most people would challenge a driver using their phone, but prevention is key – staying focused behind the wheel protects lives, licences and long-term motoring costs.

“It’s important to realise just how dangerous it can be to get distracted, and help make mobile phone use a thing of the past for the safety of all road users.”

Compare quotes for car insurance with Quotezone in partnership with Radio Times

How to avoid distractions when driving

Drivers can take simple steps to reduce the temptation to reach for their phone.

It's sensible to store your phone in the glove box, set calls and messages to do not disturb and programme any directions you need before setting off.

Our partner Quotezone is a price comparison site that helps drivers compare and find savings on motoring products including van, fleet and car insurance.

Compare quotes for car insurance with Quotezone in partnership with Radio Times

Survey details

Our partner Quotezone’s findings are based on a randomised survey of 1,000 respondents across the UK during April 2026, which represents a margin of error of approximately 5% at a 95% confidence level.

References

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This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.

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