Calls for automatic driving ban for texters

Published: 12/06/2014

Campaigners are calling for drivers who use their mobile phone whilst behind the wheel to receive the same punishment as drink-drivers after research revealed mobile use impairs a road users response time more than drink and drugs.

According to the Transport Research Laboratory, drivers talking on their phones have a 46 per cent slower reaction time while texting delays reaction times by 37 per cent. Comparatively cannabis use and drinking to the legal limit slow a driver’s by 21 and 13 per cent.

Mobile phone use resulted in 378 road accidents in 2012, 4.5 per cent of which were fatalities.

Personal Injury solicitor, Kevin Smith, comments:

“Our reliance on mobile phones is staggering. No longer just a device to call and text on, smartphones give us instant access to social media, maps, emails - well pretty much everything - any time, any place and sadly this does not exclude our cars. As a result drivers get distracted and road accidents happen.

“If you are unfortunate enough to be injured in an accident caused by a driver using a mobile phone we could help you claim compensation for your injuries and any subsequent losses.”

Content correct at time of publication