Crackdown on drivers using phones

Police forces across Scotland are holding a one-day crackdown against motorists who use their mobile phones while driving.

Officers want to remind drivers that they could face a £60 fine and three penalty points if caught.

Courts can also consider discretionary disqualification and a maximum fine of £1,000 or £2,500 for drivers of buses, coaches and goods vehicles.

It is the third 24-hour Mobile Day of Action to be held this year.

It is being coordinated by The Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (Acpos).

"The best way to avoid the temptation of answering your mobile phone when driving is to turn it off"
Ch Supt Brian Anderson
Acpos

During a similar crackdown in February police officers stopped 324 motorists who were on their phone, or texting, while driving. In August 313 drivers were caught.

Research has shown that drivers using hand-held mobile phones while driving are four times more likely to be involved in a road crash as a result.

Young and inexperienced drivers have an increased potential to be involved in an accident if they are distracted.

Chf Sup Brian Anderson, from the Acpos road policing unit, said: "You can be stopped by police even if you are using a hands-free phone.

"If your driving performance is impaired by using a mobile phone in any way that creates an accident risk, you will be stopped."

He added: "The best way to avoid the temptation of answering your mobile phone when driving is to turn it off.

"Remember, no call is worth dying for."

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The Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland
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