Suffolk Police support campaign warning against using a phone whilst driving
It's been illegal to drive whilst using a mobile phone since December 2003
Suffolk Police have announced they're backing a national campaign which aims to raise awareness amongst drivers using their mobile phone behind the wheel.
Led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), the campaign will run until Sunday 10 March.
They're hoping to change the behaviour of drivers and highlight the consequences of using a mobile phone whilst driving - this does not only refer to those making calls, but also those who may be checking texts and emails or changing a playlist.
Police tell us locals will see an increased number of patrols in the county, with officers actively focussing on those using their mobile phones whilst driving.
They'll be using officers in marked and unmarked vehicles.
It's been illegal to drive whilst using a mobile phone since December 2003.
As of March 2017, drivers committing this offence will automatically receive six points on their driving licence as well as a £200 fine.
For new drivers (those who have been driving for under two years) this could see them having their licence taken off them.
"All road users should consider not dividing their attention between their mobile phone and their driving"
Chief Inspector Vicky McParland, of the joint Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Armed Policing Team, said: “Mobile phone use whilst driving is one of the ‘Fatal Four’ offences. The fatal four refer to the four leading contributing factors which cause serious and fatal collisions and are the focus for roads policing officers on proactive patrol.
“It is also important to recognise that although legal, hands-free use of your mobile phone is not without risk. Any distraction in a vehicle will increase your chance of being involved in a collision. All road users should consider not dividing their attention between their mobile phone and their driving.”
"It absolutely horrifies me"
Tim Passmore, Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said: "It absolutely horrifies me when I see drivers on their phones, but sadly we still see it far too often.
"I implore every driver tempted to use their phone whilst behind the wheel please, do not do it. It is against the law and if you are caught you will face a fine and points on your licence but more importantly you could kill or seriously injure someone, or yourself.
He added: "I know I have said it before, but the best way to improve safety on our roads is for every driver to remember the fatal four and put your phone out of reach, belt up, watch your speed and don’t drink or take drugs if you are going to drive, that really shouldn’t be so difficult.”