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Mobile phone distraction targeted in road safety campaign
05/02/2021
“the few that continue to take risks by texting, surfing the internet or making or receiving calls are putting other road users and themselves in danger of harm”
Drivers are being warned about the dangers of using mobile phones while driving in a campaign launched by Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service in collaboration with Thames Valley Police.
Research has shown that using a mobile phone can impair driving ability more than being over the drink drive limit.
Drivers on their mobiles are much less aware of what is happening around them and can fail to see road signs, maintain a proper lane position or a steady speed. They also end up feeling more stressed and frustrated and are more likely to tailgate the vehicle in front or enter unsafe gaps in traffic.
Andy Ford, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Community Safety Education Manager, said: “Most drivers are responsible and do not use their mobile phone whilst driving. But the few that continue to take risks by texting, surfing the internet or making or receiving calls are putting other road users and themselves in danger of harm.”
Thames Valley Police this week began a campaign focusing on detecting and prosecuting drivers who use their mobile phones behind the wheel.
Road Safety Sergeant David Hazlett, of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit warned of the dangers of using a mobile phone whilst driving: “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.
“Additionally, it has been shown that motorists 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% slower.
“Think twice before answering a call using hands free, and never take your eyes off the road. Challenge your friends and family to do the same as it is unacceptable to use a mobile phone whilst driving. It is not worth the risk.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam