Numerous motorists were caught using mobile phones while driving, just months before stricter laws regarding the use of mobile phones at the wheel.
Numerous drivers were seen reading texts, making calls and playing games on an A-road in Dorset.
The current law prohibits drivers from texting or making phone calls while driving but it does not prevent them using hand-held devices.
This comes just days after Frank Lampard, a former Chelsea footballer, lost his case for using a cellphone while driving. It couldn’t be proven that it had been turned on at the moment.
The 43-year-old had been seen in his £250,000 Mercedes G wagon holding a coffee and his mobile but escaped prosecution because the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said there was ‘insufficient evidence’.
Many motorists were arrested for using their phones to drive months ago, when the laws about driving with a mobile phone was tightened.
These alarming images of motorists seeming to be unaware of the imminent law change were captured on the A338 Bournemouth (Dorset).
A new law will soon be passed that makes it illegal to use a handheld device to take pictures, check notifications or listen to music while driving.
Lampard denies the offense and has hired Nick Freeman (a lawyer known by his nickname ‘Mr Loophole’) to defend him.
New legislation will be introduced later in the year that makes it illegal for anyone to touch any handheld device, including those used to check notifications, take photos, or play music while driving.
This law applies to anyone who checks their mobile phones in traffic, or while waiting for a light.
Drivers who break the them will be handed a £200 fixed penalty notice plus six points on their licence.
These alarming images of motorists seeming to be unaware of the imminent change in law were captured on the A338 Bournemouth (Dorset).
This comes just days after Frank Lampard, a former Chelsea footballer, had his case for using a cellphone while driving dismissed because it couldn’t be proven that it was on at the time.
The 43-year-old had been seen in his £250,000 Mercedes G wagon holding a coffee and his mobile but escaped prosecution because the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said there was ‘insufficient evidence’
Sky TV employees were caught staring at tablets on their laps while they drove behind company vehicles.
Un white vanman was snapped playing Spotify and a female driver reading messages while she drove on the 50mph highway.
A motorist was also caught with his phone in his ears, apparently having a conversation.
Specialists in road safety called their actions’reckless’ and said that they were putting lives at risk.
Jack Cousens (head of roads policy, AA) stated: “The law change coming into effect later this year represents a huge step towards road safety.
“We need to make every effort to reduce distractions, so that everyone can focus on the wheel.
Jack Cousens of AA is head for roads policy.
He said, “We must do everything we can to remove distractions from the road and ensure that everyone keeps their eyes on the wheel.”
You cannot pick up your phone by accident – it is an intentional choice that puts you and others on the road at risk.
It is illegal to pick it up at traffic lights. It must be safely parked with the engine off.
If you are too distracted by the buzzing or pings of your phone, make sure to turn your glovebox into a telephone box. Or, better yet, switch it off.
“The main thing is getting to your destination safe. Notifications can wait.
“We are responsible for everyone on the roads. Texting while driving is twice as dangerous than drinking.
One white van driver could be seen listening to Spotify, while another woman driver read her texts as she traveled along 50 mph.
“These rule changes are necessary because they were created when smartphones were much simpler.
“Smartphones have the ability to do many different things. This means that they are more distracting.
Simon Williams from RAC spokesmen for road safety and stated that 25% of motorists still receive or make calls while driving.
He explained that using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal and dangerous. It can also ruin lives, just like drinking.
RAC research has shown that 25% of drivers still make or receive calls while driving. A small, but significant proportion admits to watching videos and playing video at the wheel.
One motorist was seen holding up his cellphone to the ear and apparently engaged in conversation.
“This is not currently a mobile phone offense. The device must be used to communicate.
‘This has led to lots of drivers getting just three points on their licence and a £100 fine rather than the higher, mobile phone-specific penalty of six points and a £200 fine.
‘Fortunately, the government is changing the law so that any use of a handheld device will automatically lead to six points and a £200 fine.
“Even if this becomes effective, more must be done to ensure that using a hand-held mobile phone behind the wheel is as inacceptable as drunk-driving.
Dorset Police traffic officer Inspector Craig Tatton said: “I urge everyone who believes it’s OK to use a cell phone while driving to think again.
“Using your mobile phone while driving is dangerous and could lead to serious consequences.”
We urge drivers to be responsible for their actions, and not just leave the phone at home.