Motorists want tougher penalties for drivers caught with phones

Date: 8/6/2012

Motorists who are caught driving while using their mobile phone should face tougher penalties.

This is according to research carried out by GEM Motoring Assist, which conducted the study to find out the opinions of road users when it comes to tackling the issue.

Currently, people caught engaging in this illegal activity will receive three points on their licence and a fine of £60. However, 90 per cent of those surveyed think the fine should increase to £100.

Furthermore, over 82 per cent said they would like to see motorists caught using their mobiles behind the wheel receive six penalty points.

In 2010, around 211,000 drivers were prosecuted for the offence and it seems many people believe establishing harsher penalties will go some way to tackling the problem.

David Williams MBE, Chief Executive Officer of GEM Motoring Assist, pointed out that using a phone while driving can seriously affect the safety of road users. People are four times more likely to have an accident, while their reaction times are 50 per cent slower.

He claimed it is one of the most dangerous road laws to break.

"Although having a mobile phone in your car for emergencies is advisable, we also urge motorists to switch it off when driving to avoid distraction and the temptation to use it," Mr Williams continued.

"It's interesting to see that drivers themselves believe that the penalties are not severe enough."

This opinion is not only held by members of the public, as Metropolitan Police Commissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe expressed similar views in a recent web chat held on the crime-fighting organisation's website.

Responding to a question about why so many people get away with using their phone while driving, he claimed they do not escape scot-free, highlighting the penalties that are currently in place.

However, Mr Hogan-Howe also suggested the number of penalty points people receive should be increased to six, as this would act as more of a deterrent, especially as a second offence would lead to them being banned from driving.

"I believe this would change driving behaviour and improve safety," he stated.

Posted by Sarah Bailey