New mobile safety campaign launched

The road safety minister, Jim Fitzpatrick, has launched a new £1.5 million THINK! campaign to warn against the dangers of driving with a mobile phone.

The campaign now incorporates a radio advert to complement the hard-hitting television ad launched last year, and will remind drivers to switch off before getting behind the wheel.

It is timed to coincide with the first anniversary of the introduction of tougher penalties for using a mobile phone when driving.

"Talking on a mobile phone when driving is distracting and affects your ability to react to dangerous situations, making you four times more likely to have a crash," said Mr Fitzpatrick.

"That is why we increased the penalty for illegally using a mobile when driving to three penalty points and a £60 fine.

"Our latest research shows the message is getting through to drivers but some people are still needlessly risking their own lives and putting others in danger for the sake of a phone call."

Government research shows the number of car drivers using handheld mobile phones while driving has fallen from 1.7 per cent to one per cent, while the number using hands-free equipment has fallen from 0.7 to 0.4 per cent.

"I urge all drivers to switch off or go to voicemail before they drive off," Mr Fitzpatrick concluded.