Private hire driver caught using mobile phone during Greater Manchester Police patrol

Image credit: GMP Roads

A Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Roads officer stopped a private hire vehicle (PHV) driver found using a mobile device and took to social media to report the enforcement action.

The photo shared alongside details of the incident showed a silver Toyota Prius displaying a licensed private hire vehicle plate.

Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited in the UK. Drivers caught in the act face a £200 fine and six penalty points on their licence. For private hire drivers, the repercussions can be even more severe, potentially affecting their livelihood.

Repeat offenders or those deemed to be endangering public safety may face court appearances, larger fines, and even disqualification from driving.

A Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Roads spokesperson said on social media: “Not even out of the office 5 minutes and the first one of the day stopped by GMP Motorcycle Unit for using a hand held mobile phone on Park Road, Stretford.”