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New legislation to increase the penalty for using a mobile phone whilst driving came into force on 27 February 2007. The fine will be £60 (£30 previously) and offenders will now be given 3 penalty points on their license. BetterDrivingPlease welcomes this new development wholeheartedly.

Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander said:

"Research shows that talking on a mobile phone while driving affects your concentration and ability to react to dangerous situations. It's quite simple - it's impossible to do two things at once and do them well. 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."

You can even be fined for using a hands-free if you are not in proper control of your car. After all, it is not the actual holding of the phone that can cause you to drive erratically - it's the diverting of your attention.

There are always TWO people on the phone speaking to each other. If you call someone and you realise that he/she is driving, you are really as guilty as the person you're talking to. How would you feel if someone got killed during your chat! Please terminate the call or tell them to pull over, thus doing your bit to increase road safety.

For more information please click on the links below:

• Department for Transport: Mobile Phones FAQ
• The THINK! Road Safety Website
• The Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA): Driving for Work (PDF)
• The Register: The truth about mobile phones and driving