A Private Hire Driver Loses His Licence for Using Phone While Driving

Mr Sajid Mahmood, a licensed private hire driver, was stopped by officers for using a phone while driving on M25. He was carrying a passenger to Gatwick Airport while he committed the offence.

Mr Mahmood was issued six penalty points and a £200 fine. His licence was also revoked immediately. He appealed against the decision to revoke his licence. However, the magistrate delivered his decision by saying: “The law clearly states that using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. By violating the law, you have not only put yourself at risk but also the passenger and other members of the public. Therefore, your appeal is dismissed and you are no longer considered fit and proper to be a licensed PCO driver. We uphold the decision of the licensing authority.”

Cllr Sarah Nemes, the Leader of Three Rivers District Council, said: “Since the driving laws were changed in 2022, it is now illegal for all drivers to use a mobile phone while driving. The verdict on Mr Mahmood’s case is a stark reminder for all licensed drivers that offences like these will not be tolerated. All the drivers are expected to follow the rules to confirm the safety of themselves, passengers, and the general public. By using his phone while driving, Mr Mahmood has disregarded the law.”

Sajid Mahmood won’t be permitted to reapply for the licence for the next 4 years.

Source: https://www.threerivers.gov.uk/news/private-hire-driver-loses-licence-using-phone-wheel