Police crackdown on motorists using mobiles behind the wheel

phone-no phone sign pixabay 200pxHampshire police are this week taking part in a national crackdown on motorists using mobile phones behind the wheel, warning that “a moment’s inattention could mean the difference between life and death”.

 

 

Article continues after this message...

It's hoped the week of action will reduce unnecessary deaths on the roads.

Roads Policing Officers from the Joint Operations Unit will be carrying out dedicated operations stopping drivers caught using their phones, issuing penalties, as well as educating motorists about the dangers of distraction.

Hampshire Constabulary’s Road Safety Sergeant Rob Heard said: “Research has shown that talking on a mobile phone can impair your ability to drive more than if you were driving whilst over the drink drive limit.

“You are much less aware of what's happening around you and fail to see road signs, maintain a proper lane position or a steady speed.

“Drivers end up feeling more stressed and frustrated and are more likely to 'tailgate' the vehicle in front or enter unsafe gaps in traffic.

“You are four times more likely to be involved in a collision whilst using a mobile phone or being distracted in a vehicle and your reactions are 50 per cent slower.

“I am urging all motorists to not take that risk, a moment’s inattention can be the difference between life and death.”

Sergeant Heard advised turning phones off while driving to avoid the temptation and distractions.

We're not currently accepting new comments on this site

We're reader powered! Please help us keep publishing today...

Our local news is currently free to view, but not to produce. Join people just like you who already chip in to keep our site going by becoming a 'Good Friend' supporter for just £2.99 a month - or more if you can.

Use the subscribe button below using a debit or credit card securely via PayPal. You don't need a PayPal account - just use the "Pay with Debit or Credit Card' option, when you click the 'Subscribe' button below, on the next screen. There's no obligation to open a PayPal account. Or use your existing PayPal account if you prefer. Or even better, contact us to set up a standing order so we get all your sub rather than PayPal taking a percentage.

Click here for other options/to set up a standing order - and help us keep on keeping on.

It's appreciated!

Subcription Options

 

Alternatively make a one-off donation here - you don't need a PayPal account for this option either.