Police fear too many motorists are ignoring the ban
|
Police in central Scotland have begun a seven-day crackdown against drivers who ignore the ban on using mobile telephones in their vehicles.
The use of hand-held mobiles while driving was outlawed in December.
Since then, Central Scotland Police officers have dealt with 131 drivers and will be on the lookout all week for drivers chatting at the wheel.
Police officers now have the power to issue on-the-spot £30 fines to drivers using mobile phones in vehicles.
Regular uniformed patrols and community constables throughout the Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and Stirling areas are working along with traffic police.
Officers are concerned motorists are slipping back into their old ways, after the get-tough policy was introduced six months ago.
PC Paul Redwood said: "It has recently become apparent that an increasing number of drivers are committing these offences.
"Because of this, a force-wide campaign carried out under the auspices of Operation Tundra will be carried out."
He warned: "Anyone caught using a mobile phone while driving faces the prospect of a conditional offer of a £30 fixed penalty."
Drivers were warned that £30 fines could rise to £1,000 if the case goes to court while drivers of heavy goods vehicles, buses and coaches may have to pay £2,500.
Home
~RS~q~RS~~RS~z~RS~25~RS~)
BBC NEWS CHANNEL
News services
E-mail this to a friend
Printable version
Anyone caught using a mobile phone while driving faces the prospect of a conditional offer of a £30 fixed penalty.
