It’s like driving with your eyes closed!

Date published: 14/03/2006

That’s what Rochdale Council’s Road Safety Team says you might as well do if you use a mobile phone whilst driving. Drivers doing this can lead to very serious consequences, which could even be fatal.

FACT: To drive safely you must concentrate on the road, and talking on the phone whether you are holding your handset or using hands-free kit means that your full attention is not on the road.

FACT: It is not just talking on your mobile that is dangerous. Texting, accessing the internet and using video phones can also be a hazardous distraction.

FACT: The law says drivers must have proper control of their vehicles at all times; You can also be prosecuted for careless or inconsiderate driving, if using a phone causes you to drive in this way.

FACT: The penalties include: Anything from a £30 fixed penalty, up to a £1,000 fine (£2,500 for drivers of goods vehicles, buses or coaches.) You could also be disqualified from driving and receive up to two years imprisonment, depending on the severity of the incident.