More UK Drivers Living Dangerously
An increasing number of UK drivers hold a mobile phone in one hand and the steering wheel in the other while traveling at high speeds, despite it being outlawed since 2006.
Research shows more people are driving while using their cell phone more now than before the ban was introduced. It also shows drivers are four times more likely to be involved in an accident when distracted by phone use.
The UK's Transport Research Laboratory has conducted a survey of 14,500 vehicles - mainly cars and taxis - in London and identified that 2.8% of drivers are also making or taking calls on the move.
The figure was 2.6% in 2006, just before the ban came in, and it dropped to 1.4% in 2007.
The penalty, in the unlikely event that you're caught, is a £60 fine and three points on the driving license. But that's clearly not enough to deter people as they balance convenience against risk - and decide to take the more dangerous course of action.
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