- Gloucestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner is calling-on motorists to stop using their mobile phones when driving
- (PCC) Chris Nelson is supporting a national campaign #StandingUpForHangingUP
- “Using a mobile phone at the wheel not only endangers the driver but other innocent road users as well”, he said
- The National Policing Chiefs’ Council campaign, which runs until Sunday 27 February, aims to help reduce the number of people who are killed or seriously injured as a result of mobile phone use at the wheel.
One in four motorists admit to using their phone while driving. Almost half check texts and social media. Now, Gloucestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is calling-on motorists to stop using their mobile phones at the wheel.
Gloucestershire Constabulary is joining police forces across the country in #StandingUpForHangingUp as part of a national campaign which runs throughout the week.
PCC Chris Nelson said, “Time and time again communities tell me about concerns relating to road safety, and people on the phone while driving is high on their list.
“Frankly, I find it incredible that drivers still think it’s ok to do so. It not only endangers their lives but other, innocent road users too. It’s selfish and utterly reckless and I am totally in support of this campaign”.
The National Policing Chiefs’ Council campaign aims to help reduce the number of people who are killed or seriously injured as a result of mobile phone use at the wheel.
Research has shown that drivers using a phone, whether handheld or hands free, are four times more likely to be involved in a collision, far less likely to notice and react to hazards, more likely to show poor lane discipline and make more variable speed choices.
More and more admit to being on the phone when driving
Mobile phones provide a further distraction for drivers who are using them as a Satnav or listening to music. Streaming whilst driving is also increasing with people filming videos for social media apps TikTok and Snapchat whilst driving.
Gloucestershire Roads Policing Unit Sergeant Mark Feltham said: “25 percent of people admit to talking on their mobile phone while driving which is why it’s crucial that we raise awareness of the dangers this entails.
“As well as this, 40% of people admit that they check texts or social media apps while they are in traffic so it’s not just making calls that we are looking to tackle.
“The use of a mobile phone is something we tackle year round however over the coming week officers will be putting an emphasis on spotting offences to ensure the counties roads are safe for all.
“To avoid putting yourself and other road users in danger, we advise putting your phone out of sight and on silent or in the glovebox when you’re behind the wheel.”
Officers will be out across Gloucestershire throughout the week, raising awareness of the dangers of using a mobile phone whilst driving. To find out more about the penalties of using your phone whilst driving please visit: https://www.gov.uk/using-mobile-phones-when-driving-the-law
Anyone who has concerns over someone who may be using their mobile phone whilst driving can report this to police by completing the following form or calling 999 if the incident is ongoing: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/soh/seen-or-heard/
Alternatively you can anonymously submit information by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously
