Don't think "hands free" means "scot free"

Drivers who think they can "beat the ban" on hand held-mobile phones when new laws becomes effective later this month by simply buying hands-free kit for their cars are still putting themselves and their passengers at risk.

That's the warning from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), the UK's largest independent organisation dedicated to road safety and driving standards.

Under the Road Safety Act, from Tuesday 27 February, motorists using hand-held phones at the wheel will face a stiffer penalty - £60 - and three points on their licence.

"Inevitably some drivers will think that they should buy a hands-free kit and the problem will go away," said Peter Rodger, IAM Chief Examiner. "That would certainly suit the manufacturers. But drivers should be aware that they are potentially buying trouble - even when you are hands free, research has shown that you are four times more likely to crash because your concentration is split," he said.

“If you do have to use a hands-free kit, keep your conversations short and simple and you should be aware that there are other laws you can be prosecuted under if you are involved in a crash.

"The best advice is to switch off before you drive off - and if you really can't do that, be prepared to stop and find somewhere legal and convenient to return that missed call or check your messages.

"Driving with a hand-held mobile phone is anti-social. Nobody calling you should expect you to risk your life - and your licence - to talk to them on a hand-held phone while you are at the wheel," he said.

"So hands-free does not mean you will get off scot-free. No call is that important that you should risk your life, or that of your passengers."

Three years ago the IAM launched a sticker campaign cautioning "Don't talk to Phoney Drivers".

Mr Rodger said that a full question and answer briefing on mobile phones is available on the IAM website, iam.org.uk, together with other driving tips and advice.