Police are warning motorists not to use a mobile phone while driving as nearly 1000 drivers were prosecuted in Staffordshire for using a handheld mobile in 2022.

This comes as the latest statistics from Staffordshire Police revealed that 959 drivers were prosecuted for using a handheld mobile phone while driving last year. 

Almost half (46%) of those prosecuted were driving a commercial vehicle, i.e. a van, lorry or HGV driver, at the time.

The force have launched a #PhoneFree campaign today (20 February) which will run until 12 March, aiming to educate drivers on the dangers of mobile phone use and share advice on how to avoid the temptation of using a phone while driving.

They are also asking employers to get behind the campaign to make sure everyone is #PhoneFree at the wheel.

The penalty for using a mobile phone while driving is 6 points and a £200 fine (Staffordshire Police).

Inspector Mark Joynson, of the force's Road Policing Unit, said: "Any kind of phone use can be distracting, taking your eyes off the road, even for a couple of seconds to check a notification or skip songs, can be dangerous as you can't concentrate on two things at once.

"Using handsfree systems can be distracting too, so the safest thing to do is avoid using your phone whilst driving and be phone free.

"Your friends, family, or work colleagues won't mind waiting for a text, call or message if you're driving. They would rather you got to your destination safely than not at all. If you need to make a call or text, park up somewhere safely and turn the ignition off.

"If you're caught using a phone at the wheel you could receive six points and a fine, and new drivers even have their licence removed by the courts.

"The message is simple, help us make Staffordshire's roads safer by going #PhoneFree."

To find out more about the campaign, visit the Staffordshire Police website.

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