Business calls while driving: the UK law and how to stay hands-free

If you run a business from the road, you will take calls in the car. Here is what the law says and how to do it safely.

What the law says

• It is illegal to hold and use a phone while driving, for any reason: calls, texts, photos, music or scrolling. That includes when you are stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.
• The penalty is 6 penalty points and a £200 fine. Drivers who passed their test in the last 2 years can lose their licence.
• Hands-free (Bluetooth, voice commands, a phone in a dashboard holder) is allowed, but you must stay in control of the car. The police can still stop you if you are distracted.
• You can use a hand-held phone if you are safely parked, or to call 999 or 112 in an emergency when it is unsafe or impractical to stop.

Always check the latest rules on GOV.UK and in the Highway Code.

How to take business calls hands-free

1. Pair your phone with the car's Bluetooth once, before you set off.
2. Keep the Silux Call app signed in. Business calls ring through the car speakers.
3. Answer from the car's controls (on iPhone, including CarPlay) or let a colleague or voicemail take it.

Smarter ways to handle calls on the road

• Hunt groups: let the office pick up when you are driving.
• Voicemail to email: listen later, when you are parked.
• Do not disturb: send calls to voicemail for a long drive.

Works with any car with Bluetooth calling, from Ford, Vauxhall and Volkswagen to BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Kia and Tesla, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. More on Bluetooth business calls.