A new report from RoSPA underlines the dangers of using a mobile phone while driving, and claims that many employers are ignoring the threat to their employees. It comes as fresh efforts are made in the House of Commons to ban drivers from using hand-held mobiles while on the move.
More than 150 companies were asked if they had policies on the use of mobile phones in vehicles, but only 19 replied. Of the 15 who had policies, only four had a complete ban on the use of mobiles while on the move. Most of the others allowed the use of hands-free kit, but generally only for short incoming calls or messages.
The Society says a law is needed to make it clear to motorists that it is wrong to use a mobile while driving. The report shows that at least 35 countries have introduced legislation to tackle the problem.
A Bill by Janet Anderson, MP for Rossendale and Darwen, calling for a ban on hand-held phones while driving, will have its second reading on Friday and is supported by RoSPA.
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