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Almost 50 per cent of drivers think using a phone while driving is OK

10 October 2022

New research from dashcam provider Nextbase reveals that almost 50 per cent of motorists think it’s acceptable to use a mobile phone whilst driving. 

An additional 11 per cent believe it’s fine to answer a video call whilst driving, and 7 per cent admitted to using their mobile phone to watch videos such as TV series whilst driving on long journeys.

The results of a poll by Fleet News also showed that 42 per cent of drivers were not aware of the recent changes to legislation that came into force on March 25 2022, making any handling of a mobile phone whilst driving illegal.

National Highways and Warwickshire Police are currently working together to tackle the issue of illegal mobile phone usage behind the wheel. 

The partnership has been formed to design and trial a new van which takes images and processes them using artificial intelligence to determine whether a driver is using their mobile phone. The technology can also detect if a driver is not wearing their seatbelt.

If the project is successful, it could be rolled out across the UK. 

National Highways Head of Road Safety Jeremy Phillips told Birmingham Live,

"We want to see if we can change driver behaviour and therefore improve road safety for everyone. Our advice is clear; please leave enough space, buckle up and give the road your full attention.”

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We at Marshall Leasing are always interested in the latest news about road safety and trust that you find this information useful. 

If you would like to find out more about how we can help you make the transition to an electric vehicle, please get in touch with us at info@marshall-leasing.co.uk or by calling 01480 414541. Alternatively, please complete our contact form.  

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