Phone calls ‘bad as drink for drivers’

Humberside Police have launched a month-long crackdown on drivers who use hand-held phones at the wheel, and say the practice is becoming increasingly common in serious road accidents.

Research from the Transport Research Laboratory shows drivers’ reactions and responses are dramatically impaired when using mobile phones, comparable with a driver who has consumed twice the legal alcohol limit.

Uniformed officers will be paying particular attention to drivers who flout the law, and warn offenders they face fines – or prosecution for careless or dangerous driving in the most serious cases.

As well as facing prosecution, offenders could get a £60 fixed penalty notice and three points on their licence.

Police will also be issuing road safety advice leaflets outlining the correct use of mobile phones with the aim of improving driver behaviour.

Inspector Roger Mitchell, from the force’s roads policing section, said: “When used properly, mobile phones in cars can have many benefits, providing security and help in an emergency.

“However, they are also distracting and if used whilst driving it considerably increases the risk of a collision.

“To drive safely you have to concentrate and talking on the telephone distracts your attention from the road. What’s more, if you are using your mobile phone when you’re driving you cannot be in full control of your vehicle.”

Legislation introduced in December 2003 prohibits the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving, but the force said many people are ignoring it, particularly while using mobile phones for work-related calls.

The campaign is also being targeted at motorcycle riders and other road users.