Heftier Fines For Using Mobile When Driving

Fines for all offenders will rise from £100 to £150.

20:52 21 December 2015

The increasing number of cyclist road deaths have prompted ministers to double the number of penalty points for lorry drivers caught using their phones. Offenders will also be fined £100 to £150. 

 

In 2014, 492 accidents were due to a driver using a phone. The number represents 40per cent increase from 2010.

 

David Murray, head of communications and campaigns at CTC, the national cycling charity, said: “While CTC welcomes this move as one way to discourage texting while driving, the biggest deterrent would be a greater police presence on our roads. Sadly, cuts to policing have had a disproportionately high impact on police numbers on our roads. All road users would benefit from more roads policing, but it would be the most vulnerable – cyclists and pedestrians – who would benefit the most.”

 

Amy Summers, campaigns co-ordinator for the London Cycling Campaign, said: “Any measure that encourages safer driving is welcome, but unless that is supported by people on the ground, we’re not going to see enough change in driver behaviour. 

 

“We hope that any measure is accompanied by stronger enforcement with people receiving the fines. Dangerous driving and lack of attention are major dangers to people cycling on the roads.”