Here at In-Front Autos we see plenty of cars that need repairs made to them. Often the damage is caused by drivers not paying attention to the road around them. Of course, the damage caused by road accidents can be far more serious and long lasting, than just a damaged bumper, which is why using your mobile phone whilst driving is an extremely dangerous thing to do.
In a recent report, the RAC revealed that drivers who still insist on using their mobile phones whilst at the wheel has reached shocking new levels. As a result of their findings, Ministers are now set to double the penalties for illegal mobile phone use while driving. As a trusted and respectable provider of car repairs in the Romford area, we would welcome any such change.
Under the proposals, which would come into force next year, the minimum fine drivers will receive if they are caught using a handheld mobile phone behind the wheel will rise from £100 to £200. The RAC had this to say on the matter;
The Department for Transport revealed that there will be an increase in the amount of penalty points incurred for using a mobile phone behind the wheel, from three to six.
More experienced drivers who offend twice could also be sent to court and receive fines of up to £1,000, along with a six-month ban from driving
In addition to the harsher penalties, which will apply in England, Scotland and Wales, a Think! campaign will be launched to raise awareness of the dangers associated with using a phone when driving.
The announcement comes after a poll carried out for the 2016 RAC Report on Motoring found that there has been an alarming rise in the number of people using their phone when on the road. It is thought that as many as 11 million motorists could now be making or receiving a call when driving, in addition to a worrying five million taking photos or videos.
There has also been a rise in the number of people who own up to using a phone behind the wheel, up from 8% in 2014 to 31% today, the research shows.
Additionally, there has been a rise in drivers sending a text, email or posting on social media, with the figure increasing from 7% two years ago to 19% today.
The RAC welcomed the Government’s announcement to increase the penalties for mobile phone while driving. Here at In-Front Autos we want all of our drivers to be safe whilst out on the road, but should the unthinkable happen, we are on call for all of your repair and recovery needs.
Call us today on 01708 377377 to see how we can help repair your damaged vehicle.
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