What are the penalties for answering phone calls while driving?

[FernandoFitz]

According to the "Road Traffic Safety Violation Scoring Management Measures" officially implemented from April 1, 2022, drivers who engage in behaviors that hinder safe driving, such as making or answering handheld phone calls while driving, will be penalized with a deduction of 3 points and a fine ranging from 20 to 200 yuan. 【Behaviors during driving】include situations like slow-moving traffic, intermittent movement, or waiting at traffic lights. 【Handheld phone use and other safety-hindering violations】include making or receiving calls using a handheld device, or using handheld electronic devices like phones to send/receive text messages or WeChat messages, watch videos on apps like Douyin, Kuaishou, or Weibo, or play games by viewing the screen or operating the device. Even if the phone or electronic device is fixed on a holder, performing actions like sending/receiving messages, watching videos, browsing apps, or playing games by viewing the screen or operating the device is similarly dangerous as handheld use, as it diverts the driver's attention to the screen, and thus is also considered a violation. However, if the driver uses hands-free car phones, phone earphones, or speakerphone functions for calls without compromising safety, it is not considered a handheld phone violation. Although using Bluetooth is not penalized, it is still discouraged as it can distract the driver and affect driving safety.

[SanJulian]

Last time I was caught by the police for answering a phone call while driving. Not only was I fined 200 yuan, but I also got 3 penalty points. Their reminder made me realize how dangerous distracted driving is—it can easily lead to accidents. That time, just to reply to a WeChat message, I almost hit a tree by the roadside. Honestly, the penalty is well-designed, with fines set at a uniform national standard ranging from hundreds to thousands of yuan, and penalty points that can accumulate to license suspension. Why the strict regulation? Because statistics show that using a phone while driving multiplies the risk of accidents, endangering both yourself and others. After learning my lesson, I’ve been using a Bluetooth headset and focusing solely on driving—safety first. Don’t underestimate this issue; fines are minor, but if you cause a rear-end collision, you’ll bear full responsibility.

[VanLondon]

The penalties for using a phone while driving typically include fines and demerit points. In first-tier cities, fines of 200-500 RMB and 2-3 demerit points are common. If caught by police, a ticket is issued on the spot, which may also affect insurance. These rules are based on traffic safety laws to prevent the chain of risks caused by distracted driving. I often hear people say it's no big deal, but the data speaks for itself: globally, tens of thousands of accidents each year stem from phone distractions. It's recommended to use voice assistants or pull over to handle calls—don't risk major consequences for minor conveniences. The purpose of penalties isn't to punish drivers but to ensure everyone's safety. What's more valuable than the fine is developing good habits to avoid disputes.

[EleanorRose]

Getting caught using a phone while driving results in an immediate fine and penalty points. The monetary penalty might not be significant, but the points can affect your insurance renewal. A new driver friend of mine complained about the heavy fine after being penalized, but in reality, it's a habit worth reflecting on. Distracted driving is all too common in daily life, like replying to messages, which might seem trivial but significantly increases the risk of sudden braking or lane-changing accidents. The regulations are designed to force drivers to stay focused, as accidents can range from minor property damage to life-threatening situations. The safest practice is to keep your phone off while driving.