TD urges penalty points crackdown for mobile phone drivers

Gardaí have been urged to crack down on motorists who use mobile phones while driving as soon as new penalty points for the offence come into effect from midnight.

Anyone caught using a mobile handset behind the wheel can receive two penalty points and an on-the-spot fine, or four penalty points and a fine up to €2,000 if they go to court.

Dublin North East TD Martin Brady said using a mobile while driving is unacceptable, whether on the open road or when caught in traffic.

“It is a danger not only to the motorist involved, but to everyone else on the road,” he said.

“In the coming days it is important that gardaí mount specific checkpoints to catch those drivers who are breaking the law by chatting on the phone while driving.

“In addition it is important that an extensive information campaign is launched to inform motorists of the dangers of being on the phone.”

Mr Brady said it was also important that employers play their part and provide their workers on the road with hands-free kits so they can carry out their business in safety.

“While we are making progress on the road safety front, any life lost as a result of an accident is one too many,” the Fianna Fáil TD said.

“It is important that road safety authorities, the Gardaí and the senior ministers continue to keep this issue under review.”