More points for mobile phone drivers, says Metropolitan Police Commissioner

Date: 25/4/2012

Increasing the number of points people receive on their licence if they are caught using a mobile phone when driving could make the roads safer.

This is according to Metropolitan Police Commissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe, who discussed the matter in a recent webchat on the organisation's website.

Responding to a question about why so many people get away with this crime, he noted that individuals currently receive a fine and three points on their licence if they are caught.

However, if this punishment was increased to six points on their licence, it could act as more of a deterrent.

"That would mean a second offence would lead to them being banned and I believe this would change driving behaviour and improve safety," Commissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe stated.

The government advises all motorists to pull over and park safely if they have to make a phone call while driving, as they are four times more likely to crash if they engage in the illegal practice.

Posted by Sarah Bailey