Motorists Fined Every Three Minutes

About every three minutes drivers are fined for using their mobile phone while behind the wheel in the UK. Research was recently compiled by an insurance provider. The results showed that 171,000 drivers were stopped between 2010 and 2011 by the police in order to fine them for using their mobile phones while driving. These offences have doubled since 2004 when the ban of using phones while driving was put in place. In 2004, about 74,000 penalties were given out.

These figures were provided by the Freedom of Information Requests sent to England and Wales. In fact 43 different police locations received notice to provide the details. About seven million UK drivers admitted to being on their phones during the last seven months. It suggests that only 3 per cent or so are caught and fined for the offence. About 12 per cent of the offenders are between the ages of 18 and 34. These individuals have even admitted to logging on to social networks while driving too.

These statistics are alarming according to Chief Claims Officer at the insurance company. Reames stated that there is a substantial amount of minors using their phones while driving added to the speeding. The fines will increase in cost in the next year from 80 to 100 pounds in order to add to the issue of using mobile phones.

For fleet drivers this can be an issue. Not only will the fleet driver be fined for using their phone, but they could potentially cause larger accidents if they are distracted while driving. This could cause several issues. It is far better to use handheld devices and ensure that the phone is only used when it is necessary rather than talking just for fun.

It is possible for fleet companies to reduce their costs as long as they are willing. For example the fuel cardis a necessary fleet product. By combining a fuel card with driver retraining on the mobile phone usage and speeding a company can save a significant amount of money. The question is whether or not the drivers will adhere to the advice. According to the law it is actually illegal to use hand held mobile phones behind the wheel. It means one can talk with employers and employees only when stopped or as long as there is a hands free device in the car. It should be noted any employer trying to talk with an employee with a hand held device can be prosecuted.