Mobile phone madness could lead to car “no talking” rule

A leading UK insurance intermediary has hit out at claims that using a mobile phone while driving is as dangerous as getting behind the wheel after drinking.

Tests carried out by psychologists in the United States suggest that people are as impaired when they drive and talk on the phone as when they are at the drink-drive limit.

It prompted campaigners to call for a total ban on the use of mobiles in cars, including hands-free kits.

But The Allen & Allen Group believes drink-driving and speaking on a hands-free phone cannot be compared and welcomed a Department for Transport announcement that ruled out a ban.

“We do not condone people handling mobile phones while driving as this can distract them from the road and leave them more likely to have an accident,” said chairman Tony Allen.

“But we cannot see how someone chatting over a hands-free system makes them as dangerous behind the wheel as someone who has been drinking.

“If you follow this through, does this mean that if you have passengers in the car you should not be talking to them? Will people get an automatic ban and face jail for talking to someone?

“We have to be sensible about this. It is right that people should be fined for handling a mobile phone. It acts as a deterrent and helps make roads safer - but drivers should not be fined for talking.”

The new Road Safety Bill, due to come into force soon, sees fines rise from £30 to £60, plus three penalty points, for drivers “holding” a mobile while driving.