Motorists call for stronger penalties for mobile users

Published: 07/11/2014

Over half of UK motorists believe the penalty for using a mobile phone whilst driving should be more severe, according to a recent survey by British Car Auctions (BCA).

The current penalty is a £100 fine and three points on the driving licence. This does not appear to deter drivers with a staggering 95 per cent of road users having seen a fellow driving using a mobile phone behind the wheel.

Yet despite being frustrated by this dangerous driving behaviour and calling for higher penalties, 42 per cent of those surveyed admitted to using a handheld mobile whilst driving themselves. 27 per cent admitted texting, 13 per cent to taking a photo and 6 per cent have checked social media behind the wheel.

Personal injury solicitor, Kevin Smith, comments:

“Sometimes it feels like we miss our mobile phones more than our loved ones! We’re constantly checking, uploading, posting at every opportunity. But this attachment is a dangerous one, particularly when it’s occurring behind the wheel.

“You are four times more likely to crash and cause a road traffic accident if you use a mobile phone whilst driving as your reaction times are significantly delayed.”

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