A motorist typing on his mobile phone using both hands while driving has been fined and banned from driving. The motorist was steering his car using his legs. ‘Irresponsible driving,’ said the judge. What is and isn't allowed behind the wheel?
The driver attracted the attention of the motorway police because he was swerving on the motorway and crossing an uninterrupted white line painted on the road surface. The officers had to take avoiding action in order to ensure they didn’t collide with the driver. To their surprise, they noticed that the man was steering his car with the wheel between his legs while using his mobile phone with both hands!
‘I was writing an urgent email,’ the motorist said after the officers pulled him over. He had to surrender his driving licence on the spot. It was withheld for a 15-day period.
This week, the driver had to face a judge in Sint-Niklaas (East Flanders). ‘I wouldn't even know how to drive a car with my legs. What I do know is that this is irresponsible driving,’ the judge told the defendant. The magistrate sentenced him to a 15-day driving ban and a 400-euro fine.
What does the law say?
Article 8.3
Every driver must be able to steer and must have the required physical fitness and the necessary knowledge and driving skills.
Drivers must always be able to perform all necessary driving manoeuvres and maintain constant control of their vehicle or animals.
Operating a screen, eating or drinking while driving, lighting a cigarette, applying make-up, holding your dog on your lap... None of these activities are permitted if they could distract you!