Clampdown on mobile motorists
● POLICE have warned Halton drivers that some motorists are still ignoring the dangers of mobile phones and roads despite a hike in the punishment for those caught by the authorities.
Cheshire Constabulary said some motorists continue to send texts, make calls or update their social media platforms while on the move.
This is despite facing a £200 and six penalty points if caught.
David Keane, Cheshire Police And Crime Commissioner (PCC). has said driving while distracted by mobile phones should carry as much stigma as drink or drug driving.
The warning came to coincide with the National Police Chiefs’ Council mobile phone enforcement week.
The punishments for being caught on the phone were doubled in March.
Assistant Chief Constable Darren Martland said: “Our officers are out on the roads 24-seven policing the county and targeting those who flout the law.
“This week is our opportunity to reinforce the message that using a handheld mobile device is dangerous, completely reckless and will not be tolerated in Cheshire.
“The safety of Cheshire’s roads is paramount and our roads policing team will do all they can to enforce the law to keep our roads safe.”
Mr Keane said: “Road safety is a key objective of my police and crime plan so we are delighted to be supporting this week of action. The office of the PCC held our first roads policing conference recently to see how we can work together with our partners and the community to keep Cheshire’s roads safe.
“This week is an excellent way to keep that conversation going and highlight the work that our officers carry out every day. All of us deserve to use our roads safely and the message is clear – driving distracted should be seen as socially unacceptable as drink or drug driving.”