New mobile phone campaign launched
* Some drivers still using hand-held phones * New 1.5m Government campaign * Targets drivers through radio, TV and cinema ads...
The Government is launching a 1.5million campaign to target drivers who use a hand-held mobile phone when driving.
Using advertisements on TV, radio and in cinemas, it is timed to coincide with the first anniversary of tougher penalties for using a mobile phone when driving.
Since then, the penalty for illegally using a mobile phone when driving is three points and a 60 fine.
Road safety minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: 'Our latest research shows the message is getting through to drivers, but some people are still needlessly risking their own lives and putting others in danger for the sake of a phone call.'
The Government's latest research shows a 40% reduction in the number of drivers seen using hand-held phones at the wheel between September 2006 and August last year. Just 1% were seen using a hand-held mobile compared with 1.7% in 2006.
However, whatcar.com's own poll taken during the same period showed that many more people admitted to using hand-held phones when driving - over 44% of drivers polled admitted to using a hand-held mobile phone at some point.
Best small SUVs 2024 and the ones to avoid – tried and tested
Thinking of buying a new small SUV? Then make sure you read our rundown of the top 10 cars in this booming sector – plus, find out which ones we'd avoid
