TXT ing while driving

New research shows that 30% of 'young drivers' - those aged 17 - 25 admit to texting whilst driving.

Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: "It doesn't matter how good a driver you are, if you text while driving then you cannot be giving the road your full attention."

"The message that mobile phones and driving should not mix is getting through to the majority of drivers but some people are still needlessly risking their own lives and putting others in danger for the sake of a text or a call."

"Our message to all drivers is simple: Don't use your mobile phone when you're driving."

An online 'driving challenge' game has been launched through social networking communities and entertainment sites. The game shows how distracting using a mobile at the wheel can be and is designed to help change driver behaviour. To play the game, follow the link below.

Mobile phone driving challenge game

This is a short clip from You Tube, the full length studies the consequences of texting whilst driving. The 30-minute video was made for use in schools in South Wales; it wasn’t even due to go into the curriculum till next year but is already well over 1/2 million views. This link tells you more about it.

A short summary of the 'Avoidable distraction law' is given here . . . .

As from the 18th August 2008 new legislation gives the Courts the power to sentence drivers to up to 5 years imprisonment if they cause a death due to an avoidable distraction.

The provisions are contained in the Road Safety Act 2006 and they replace the old law which restricted the punishment for causing death by careless driving to a £5,000 fine and penalty points.

Avoidable distractions which the Courts can consider when sentencing motorists who have caused death include:
 

• Mobile phone usage

• Drink in hand and eating

• Applying make-up

• Anything else which takes the driver’s attention away from the road and which the Court judges to have been an avoidable distraction

In the news

Harriet Harman MP to face mobile phone prosecution

The Crown Prosecution Service have announced there is sufficient evidence to prosecute Harriet Harman MP

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Jail for lorry driver after 'text death'

A lorry driver who had been texting in the moments leading up to  his killing a cyclist he "didn't see" has been jailed.

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TXT ing whilst driving

Over 30% of 'young drivers' admit to it but how about mobile phone use ?

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Over 80% of van drivers don't know limits

A 2008 survey has shown that over 80% of van driver have no idea about the speed limits for their vehicle.

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Average Speed Cameras now in use

Average speed cameras now deployed in many areas across UK. Slowing down for the camera doesn't work any more.

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