DERBYSHIRE: Cop welcomes plans to tackle dangerous driving

Motorists who are caught using a mobile phone while driving could be ordered to pay £90 instead of the current £60.

The proposal has been announced by Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin as part of moves to tackle dangerous driving.

Chief Inspector Steve Wilson, head of roads policing at Derbyshire Constabulary, said: “Using a mobile phone while behind the wheel is incredibly dangerous and seriously distracts the driver from the road and what is happening around them.

“It is one of the ‘fatal four’ contributing factors in road collisions alongside speeding, drink-driving and not wearing a seatbelt and it is something we target on a regular basis.

“As well as an increased fine, drivers should be aware that three points on your licence will attract an average of £158 additional insurance premiums each year for up to five years.”

Derbyshire Dales MP Mr McLouglin added: “We want to send a clear message to dangerous drivers: if you continue to show complete disregard for the safety of other road users, we will catch you – and we will punish you.”

The plans will be considered by the Department for Transport.

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