Rail minister Lord Peter Hendy has contacted police and admitted to driving while using a mobile phone.
The incident occurred on Friday, March 28, when Hendy was driving a vintage bus at a charity event in London. Hendy, who owns the classic Routemaster bus, was driving the passenger-laden vehicle through London during rush hour, as part of efforts to raise money for the Railway Family Fundraiser.
A passenger on the bus spotted Hendry using a mobile phone while driving, and reported him to the police three days later. The same passenger then contacted the charity to inform them that the police were aware of the incident.
Hendy claims he used the phone to send a text to a friend regarding a prostate cancer test. He has stated he regrets the incident, describing it as an error of judgment. He is likely to accrue six points on his licence, and a fine.
Using a hand-held device while driving is a common cause of accidents, and is unlawful even if the vehicle is stationary at traffic lights. Six points can cause serious inconvenience to a driver, especially if there are already points on the licence and totting-up is applied. Repeated offences of this nature can result in a driver having their license taken away.
If you face restrictions to your driving due to totting-up, solicitors can advise you on the best way to proceed with the courts and police, and help you to mitigate the effects of any penalties.