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21 February 2007

Switch off before you drive off

James Foster, England and Essex County Cricket wicket-keeper, has urged Chelmsford shoppers not to get ‘caught out’ by changes to the law that mean tough new penalties for illegal mobile phone use.

From 27 February, the fixed penalty will for the first time include the award of three penalty points as well as doubling the fine to £60.

Essex County Road Safety Officers, Essex Police and Essex County Fire & Rescue Service talked shoppers through the changes outside the Tesco store in Princess Road.

Transport Minister Stephen Ladyman said: “Research shows that talking on a mobile phone while driving affects your concentration and ability to react to dangerous situations.

“That is why in December 2003 we introduced new laws preventing motorists from driving while using a hand-held mobile. We have seen a groundswell of support for this move. But, worryingly, while 92% of people agree with the law, 21% of drivers admit to breaking it. That is why, from 27 February, the Road Safety Act will introduce a tougher fixed penalty of three points on your licence as well as a £60 fine.”

Kathy Payne, County Road Safety Officer said: “Essex Police have committed to prosecute anyone caught using their phone to talk, send texts, take pictures or access the internet while driving - including when stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.”

County Councillor Rodney Bass, Chairman of the Essex Casualty Reduction Board and Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation, said: “Hopefully this new legislation will deter drivers from putting themselves and others in danger. Research has shown that if you are using your mobile phone while driving you are four times more likely to have a crash.”

Home Office figures for 2004 show that nearly 74,000 fixed penalty notices were issued for illegal use of a mobile phone while driving. The Department for Transport continues to work closely with private partners, including the mobile phone industry, to ensure mobile phone users are made aware of the changes and how it affects them.