Jersey police crack down on phone use while driving

Date: 4/5/2011

Police on the island of Jersey are cracking down on those who use their mobile phones while driving by launching a brand new awareness campaign to show people how dangerous it can be.

As well as being an illegal action, officers are hoping the new move will make drivers more aware of just how distracting using a communications device on the roads can be.

Phillip Blake, Road Safety Officer, explained: "I think the trouble is when the phone goes, when they hear it ringing or a text coming in the temptation to answer it is just so strong. I think that's the problem."

In order to ensure drivers do not give into the temptation of picking up their mobile while driving, Mr Blake suggested turning the phone off altogether or putting it on silent mode so they cannot hear it ringing.

Meanwhile, recent figures from Warwickshire County Council have revealed deaths and serious injuries on the roads of the Midlands county have fallen from 639 to 301 - more than half - over the past 10 years.

Posted by Sarah Bailey