In addition, the penalty will extend to drivers who fail to have proper control of a vehicle while using a hands-free mobile phone and to driving instructors who are not permitted to use a mobile phone while carrying out instruction.

Chief Inspector Rick Dowell, Head of the Road Policing Unit, said: “We’ve been enforcing the ban on mobile phones since it was first introduced in 2003 and as part of our commitment to making the roads of Dorset safer, we welcome the change in legislation and the stiffer penalties it will provide to encourage a greater compliance with the law. 

“Driving while talking on the phone puts all road users at risk. It’s a selfish and unacceptable act.

“Drivers should always stop in a safe appropriate place if they wish to make any calls – and if someone rings you then wait until it is convenient to stop and return the call. Mobile phone users should make greater use of the voicemail service.

“Equally, drivers should never send or read text messages while driving – again wait until it is convenient to pull in before reaching for the handset.

Chief Inspector Dowell explained, “Research has shown that trying to do two things at once can produce reactions that are similar to those of a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“Therefore, it is not advisable to talk on the phone while on the road at all, even with a hands-free kit.”

The real dangers to others, of using a mobile phone at the wheel, are highlighted by the tragic death of Christopher Losper, a 60-year old milkman from Bournemouth. Christopher was killed in August 2006 while out on his rounds in the West Moors area of Dorset.

Tony Revell

Dorset Police will be engaging in a period of extra enforcement between 27 February and 31 March 2007 in support of the increased penalties.

For general enquiries or to report a non-urgent crime, call Dorset Police on 01202 or 01305 22 22 22. Only dial 999 if life is in danger or a crime is in progress.