Motorists who use their mobile phones while driving are being reminded of the consequence of flouting the law. Throughout November, officers from West Mercia Police will be carrying out targeted enforcement and cracking down on any motorists who are using their phones at the wheel. As well as enforcement, they will be working with West Midlands Ambulance Service to explain some of the implications, and the Safer Roads Partnership to urge drivers to avoid deadly distractions at the wheel. Together, they’ll be running a targeted mobile phone enforcement and education campaign.

Using a mobile phone while driving is a potentially fatal distraction and has been illegal since December 2003. The penalty for using a mobile phone while driving is now a £100 fine and three penalty points on the offender’s licence. However, the government has recently proposed that this should increase to six penalty points and a £200 fine; ensuring drivers face much tougher penalties. These changes are expected to take effect in the first half of 2017.

A recent 2016 annual report on motoring, by the RAC, suggests the number of motorists who illegally use mobile phones while at the wheel is rising.

Superintendent Daryn Elton for Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police said: “Improving the safety of our roads is a year-round commitment for our officers. Although mobile phone enforcement is already part of our daily operational activity, we will be stepping up our efforts over the coming weeks to crack down on motorists who are blatantly ignoring both the law and the dangers involved.

“Many motorists are already aware that using a mobile phone while driving is illegal. This includes using your phone to follow a map, read a text or check social media, and applies even if you’re stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic. With smartphones becoming more and more embedded into our daily routines, we are all aware of how useful they can be. However, it is unacceptable to allow yourself to be distracted by them while driving, and officers will ensure any motorists doing so face the penalties involved.”