Police in Derbyshire have begun a month-long campaign to raise awareness of the ‘Fatal Four Offences’ for drivers.
A spokesman for Alfreton Police SNT said on Monday (March 3): “Over the month of March, we are sending out advice around the Fatal Four Offences – Drink or Drug driving, speeding, using a mobile device while driving and not wearing seatbelts.
“These four are the top road offences which cause collisions and serious injuries on our roads.
“To start off, using a mobile phone/device while driving is illegal. This does not mean just making a call, it includes: Illuminating the screen; Checking the time or notifications; Unlocking the device; Making, receiving, or rejecting a telephone or internet-based call; Sending, receiving, or uploading oral or written content or a photo or video; Utilising camera, video, or sound recording; Drafting any text; Accessing ant stored data such as documents, books, audio files, photos, videos, films, playlists, notes or messages, an app, or the internet.”
The force spokesman continued: “Getting caught will mean you will receive six points on your licence and a £200 fine.
“And, if you’ve been driving less than two years, those six points will mean you automatically lose your licence.
“Furthermore, points on your licence can also lead to higher insurance costs.
“The facts on using your mobile while driving; Drivers are slower at seeing and reacting to hazards. Your reaction times are two to three times slower if you are text and drive, than if you drink and drive.
“It can impair your control of the vehicle; You are four times more likely to be involved in a collision.
“It’s illegal to use a handheld mobile when driving, even if you’ve stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic; It is only legal to use it if you are safely parked or if you need to call 999 in an emergency and it is unsafe or impractical to stop.
“It is also illegal to use a handheld phone or similar device when supervising a learner driver; Using a mobile phone for navigation will continue to be legal, as long as it is kept in a cradle and not in the driver’s hand.”
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