Kent campaign launched targeting illegal use of mobile phones at the wheel

ByEd

Feb 9, 2021

Photo by Alexandre Boucher on Unsplash

Motorists are being reminded about the dangers of using a mobile phone at the wheel as officers seek to reduce injuries and deaths on Kent’s roads.

The advice is issued as officers start a two-week operation in support of a National Police Chiefs Council road safety campaign.

Between Monday 8 and Sunday 21 February 2021, officers from Kent Police’s Roads Policing Unit will be targeting the minority of drivers who make calls and send texts when they should be paying attention to the road.

Patrols in marked and unmarked vehicles will also be testing for drivers under the influence of drink or drugs when they think an offence may have been committed.

Using a phone while driving is one of the offences dubbed the ‘fatal four’ as it is one of the biggest contributing factors to fatal and serious injury collisions. The other factors are speeding, failing to wear a seat belt and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Those stopped by patrols will be reminded that their behaviour makes them four times more likely to be involved in a collision.

Chief Inspector Elena Hall said: ‘Most motorists comply with the law and our main aim is to educate the drivers of the risks posed by being distracted by mobile phones, including hands-free use, while in control of a vehicle.
‘This includes being less aware of what is happening on the road around them, failing to maintain proper lane position and steady speed, and taking longer to brake and stop.
‘All drivers need to take responsibility for their own actions. Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal. We are working to reduce collisions and casualties on our roads and everybody needs to play their part, concentrate, and drive safely.’