Motorists Ignore Mobile Phone Ban

Using a hand-held phone while driving is punishable by a £60 fine and three penalty points. However research shows that hands-free phones are no safer than hand-held phones. The main danger of being on the phone while driving is disruption of concentration.

The study revealed that on average the reactions of a driver on the phone were nearly 50% slower than when driving normally and that even using a hands free kit did not completely eliminate the distraction caused by having a telephone conversation whilst driving.

New research has shown that using a mobile phone while driving is more dangerous than being drunk behind the wheel. In effect, this means that 10 million drivers are partaking in a driving activity that is potentially more dangerous than being drunk.

More than half of motorists still talk and text on their mobile phones whilst on the move despite a ban on hand-held mobiles in vehicles.

A poll from Auto Trader has revealed that as many as three-quarters of drivers agree with the ban and believe it should carry a fine and penalty points on a licence.

While the AA’s Head of Road Safety says: “It is clear that the message on the danger of using a hand-held mobile phone while driving and the possibility of being imprisoned is understood loud and clear. Despite this, many drivers seem determined to continue.”

British motorists have some potentially lethal bad habits so it is important that government and police introduce measures to promote safer driving.