Mobile phone drivers defiant over new penalties

A survey by Skoda on drivers using mobile phones when driving has revealed shocking results. The Czech firm has discovered that 6% of all 18-24 year olds and 5% of men overall will continue to use a hand-held mobile phone while at the wheel after 27 February, despite the introduction of harsher penalties.

Men and young drivers emerged as the most defiant groups in the study. However, more widely, 23% of those currently flouting the law say the new legislation will deter them from doing so in the future.

While a worrying number of 18-24 year olds say they will continue to use their mobiles while driving, it does appear that many within this age group have been affected by the impending legislation. 36% said the new law would deter them from using a phone in the future, with 30% claiming that they’ve already stopped using a hand-held phone at the wheel.

Women emerged safer than their male counterparts with just 1% of those surveyed saying they will continue to break the law.

Drivers from the South East and East Midlands were the most indifferent to the change in penalties. Just 5% from the former said they’d remain undeterred, with only 15 per cent from the latter pledging to change their habits.

In contrast, the imminent change in legislation looks set to have the biggest impact on drivers from the North West and Yorkshire . A massive 31% of people from the North East pledged to alter their behaviour, while just 1% of Yorkshire dwellers intended to continue breaking the law.

Catherine Bell, Head of Press and PR for Skoda, welcomes the harsher penalties, commenting: “Since December 2003, it has been illegal to use a hand-held phone while driving; however, people continue to do so. Our study clearly demonstrates that stricter penalties will deter the vast majority of drivers, and I would implore the minority who remain defiant to consider their actions and help to make our roads a safer place.”

From 27 February, the fine for using a hand-held mobile phone will double to £60 in addition to three penalty points.