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Leeds taxi driver loses licence after mobile phone incident nearly ends in police car crash and row with officer
- Perry Richardson
- 2 hours ago
- 1 min read
A Leeds taxi driver received a three-year driving ban after police spotted him using a mobile phone behind the wheel before he nearly collided with a patrol car.
West Yorkshire Police said an experienced Leeds Special Constable was patrolling with a new Special Constable in Harehills when they saw the driver pulling out in front of their vehicle while using his phone.
According to the force, the motorist attempted to discard the device after noticing the officers. Police said: “Upon sight of our officers, the taxi driver threw his mobile on the floor.”
The driver then tried to retrieve the phone while continuing to drive. The force added: “He then began fumbling around to pick it up, nearly crashing into the police patrol car.”
Officers directed the taxi driver to stop and a student officer approached him to discuss the alleged offence. Police said the driver then began “shouting abuse at the student officer”, prompting the more experienced Special Constable to intervene.
The motorist was reported for using a mobile phone while driving, driving without due care and attention and driving without being in proper control of a vehicle. Police also found that three of the taxi’s tyres were illegal.
The driver was subsequently summoned to court. West Yorkshire Police said: “The driver was summoned to court where he received a 3 year driving ban, lost his taxi license and fined £1492.”
Police did not disclose the driver’s identity, the court at which the case was heard or the date of sentencing. No further details were provided about the condition of the three tyres or the specific mobile phone activity witnessed by officers.
