Campaign launched to highlight dangers of using phones in cars

Date: 16/11/2011

A campaign has been launched to improve road safety by reminding people of the dangers of talking on their phone while driving.

Using the scheme, GEM Motoring Assist also wishes to remind people of the penalties they may face if they are caught chatting on their device while behind the wheel.

The organisation said motorists should switch their mobiles off before they start driving, as this will reduce the temptation to check their messages and calls.

David Williams MBE, Chief Executive of GEM Motoring Assist, said it is "illegal and dangerous to use a hand-held mobile and it must only be used when you have stopped in a safe place."

However, he noted it is a good idea to have a phone in the vehicle in case of emergencies.

According to the group, drivers are four times more likely to have an accident if they use their mobile.

It was research conducted by the TRL that highlighted the dangers of driving while using a mobile phone. In its report 'How dangerous is driving with a mobile phone? Benchmarking the impairment to alcohol', results showed a clear trend for significantly poorer driving performance (speed control and response time) when using a hand-held phone in comparison to other conditions.  

Posted by Sarah Bailey