The operation which starts today and will continue up until Christmas will see undercover officers target the regions busiest roads aims to catch and prosecute offenders as well as educating drivers.
It is reported that GMP’s Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said “No-one would think of getting into a car with someone who has been drinking alcohol in the driving seat so why would you put yourself at risk when someone uses a mobile. We can all make a difference by urging people to think about their actions,”
The current penalties for using a mobile phone when driving may result in a fixed penalty fine of £200 and 6 penalty points on your driving licence. However the case could go to court where you may be disqualified from driving and receive a fine of up to £1,000. Drivers of buses or goods vehicles face heavier penalties and could receive a maximum fine of £2,500.
It is also often the case that those accused of using a mobile phone while driving also face charges of driving without due care and attention or dangerous driving which means that the punishment is much more severe. Offences of dangerous driving are likely to lead to a custodial sentence.
The government’s think campaign video is quite alarming but is clearly designed to shock people into understanding the dangers of using mobile devices when driving.
If you are caught using a mobile phone when driving you will need expert legal advice, contact one of the team by clicking here.