UK Insurance News

hands free kit

The use of hands-free mobile phones while driving is not illegal, but a recent survey from motor insurers Esure suggests that there is a growing concern from motorists over the distractions caused when using any telephonic device whilst driving.

The figures from Esure found that 41% of motorists surveyed believed that hands-free mobile phone devices should be banned and 48% agreeing that they needlessly put safety at risk. A massive 71% say that mobile phone hands-free kits are a distraction to the driver.

The report adds that 2,986 motorists were prosecuted in England and Wales during 2007 for failing to have proper control of their vehicle while being distracted by hands-free phone calls.

A spokesman for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) says;

“Using a hands-free phone while driving is just as dangerous as using a hand-held phone because of the mental distraction caused by the telephone conversation. RoSPA has always said that the use of hands-free phone kits while driving should have been made illegal at the same time as hand-held phones were. We urge employers in particular to ensure their employees do not use any type of mobile phone when they are driving for work.”