Rule
The law in Sweden
Since February 2018 it is forbidden to hold a mobile phone while driving, even at a red light when stationary. Fine: 1500 SEK. Handsfree is LEGAL but not recommended.
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Lesson5 min
Mobile phone and other distractions
What the law says, how dangerous it really is, and why even handsfree is risky.
You will learn, among other things:
Heads up
What research says
Texting behind the wheel raises crash risk 23-fold. Looking at the screen for 2 seconds at 90 km/h is 50 metres driven blind, more than a house length. Handsfree calls are less dangerous but still four times as risky as no call at all, cognitive distraction, not visual.
Exam trap
Other distractions that count
The law does not only restrict phone use. Under the Swedish Traffic Ordinance (Trafikförordningen), Chapter 3, Section 1, a driver must adapt their driving and remain as attentive and careful as circumstances require in order to avoid danger. If a distraction causes inattentive or dangerous driving, it can be judged as careless driving, regardless of what caused the distraction. Examples of things that can impair your attention and therefore risk a sanction if they lead to unsafe driving include: • Eating or drinking while driving • Applying makeup or grooming behind the wheel • Adjusting the radio, climate control, or other functions via the infotainment screen • Looking at a GPS or phone screen for longer than a quick glance • Becoming so absorbed in a conversation with a passenger that you miss important traffic signals It is not these actions themselves that are illegal, but the loss of the attentiveness that traffic safety requires.
Tip
The habit that saves you
Before driving: activate Driving Focus (iOS) or Do Not Disturb While Driving (Android), the phone stays silent, notifications off, senders get auto-reply. If you absolutely MUST call: pull over, put in park, then call.