Forum Brief: Mobile phone safety

The Association of British Insurers has called for a ban on motorists using hand held mobile phones while driving.

Drivers convicted of using a mobile phone while driving could face higher motor insurance premiums.

Forum Response: Vodafone

A spokesman for Vodafone told ePolitix.com: "Holding and operating a mobile phone whilst driving may reduce concentration and effectiveness. Using hands free equipment is also likely to distract attention from the road and may contribute to the likelihood of an accident.

"Responsibility for safe control of vehicles always rests with the driver and Vodafone advises all drivers never to use a handheld phone whilst driving and only to use hands free equipment when it is safe to do so.

"The Group also supports responsible national legislation to promote the safe use of mobile phones whilst driving."

Forum Response: Association of British Insurers

Jo Dagustun, motor manager at the ABI, said: "Using a hand held mobile phone while driving is distracting, dangerous, and can lead to tragedy.

"We believe that many motorists are unaware just how dangerous this activity is. Creating a specific offence, together with an effective penalty regime, will leave drivers in no doubt of the seriousness of this issue."