RoSPA Press Office : Press Release

February 26, 1999
HIGHWAY CODE CHANGES WELCOMED ON "MOBILE OFFICES"

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents today welcomed rule changes on mobile phones in the new Highway Code and said they were further proof of the dangers of using hand-held and hands-free phones while driving.

RoSPA supports other measures in the code to stop cars becoming "mobile offices".

Only yesterday the Society revealed new research indicating that using a mobile phone whether hand-held or hands-free while at the wheel greatly increases the chance of having an accident. It wants a specific law to ban the use of mobile phones while driving, but has no objections to them being installed in cars.

The Highway Code now says "never use a hand-held mobile phone or microphone when driving. Hands-free equipment is also likely to distract your attention from the road. It is safer not to use any telephone while you are driving - find a safe place to stop."

Dave Rogers, RoSPA Road Safety Adviser, said: "This is what we have been saying for a long time and confirms what we have said about the dangers of mobile phones. We think it is yet another step towards a law banning the use of mobile phones while at the wheel."

At least six road deaths have been linked to mobile phones in Great Britain.

The Society also welcomed advice on the dangers of using in-vehicle systems like route guidance, PCs and multi-media.

"There is a danger that cars are becoming more and more like mobile offices which will lead to drivers being distracted from their main task of driving the vehicle safely," Dave Rogers said.

"The advice on not driving when tired and taking care about driving when on medication or drugs is also something which we have said is needed."