Most NI drivers admit to using phone at the wheel
Last updated 20th Feb 2022
Most Northern Ireland drivers surveyed in a new study admit to using their phone while behind the wheel.
The research was carried out by Stormont’s Department for Infrastructure.
It reveals almost two-thirds of all drivers (64%) report using their phone in some capacity while driving a car.
Meanwhile only about 50% of respondents believe drivers are likely to be stopped by police for using their mobile phone while driving.
Last year tougher penalties were introduced to deter drivers from using their mobile phones.
If caught, drivers now get an automatic fixed penalty notice, six penalty points, and a fine of £200. If your case goes to court, you may face disqualification on top of a maximum fine of £1,000
The law change was brought forward by Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon.
Speaking about the findings of the new research, she told Downtown/Cool FM:
“Using a mobile phone while driving, even hands-free is distracting and potentially dangerous. I am shocked and disappointed to see the findings from the 2020/2021 Continuous Household Survey that 64% of drivers, even though they know they shouldn’t, continue to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. This selfish behaviour is not only illegal but potentially dangerous to themselves and other road users.”
“I brought forward new legislation in February 2021 to increase the penalty points and fines in Northern Ireland for those using a hand-held mobile phone while driving. This is in line with the current penalty in GB.”
“While this was an important first step in bringing about a positive change in road user behaviour, I have been clear that I want to do more. A review of the current hand-held mobile phone offence in the north will be carried out by my Department with a view to tightening it to reflect use of modern smart phone technology.”
“The review will reflect similar work carried out by Department For Transport (DFT) in GB to broaden the offence and also the position in Ireland. Proposals to change the existing offence in Northern Ireland will be subject to public consultation.”
“I have also commissioned a new road safety campaign to address careless and inattentive driving. Careless and Inattentive Driving is the number one reason for road traffic collisions in the north. Carelessness is made up of a number of poor road user behaviours; including ‘Inattention or attention diverted which includes mobile phone use’ and ‘driving too close’.”
“The new campaign is being progressed and will be aired by the autumn.”