Police snare mobile using drivers

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A police crackdown in Scotland on motorists using a mobile phone while driving has led to 180 motorists being caught.

The day-long nationwide saw more people caught than in the same scheme last year and is set to spark hikes in car insurance premiums across Scotland.

In 2009, police caught 171 motorists using their mobile phones behind the wheel.

The 24-hour campaign was aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of using a mobile phone while driving. Reaction speeds and concentration levels can be affected even when using a hands-free device.

The initiative, led by the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland, involved all eight of the country's police forces.

In Strathclyde, the area with the most offenders caught, 103 people were found to be using a phone while driving. Lothian and Borders followed, with 39 motorists being caught.

Chief Superintendent Charlie Common, of Lothian and Borders Police, said: "The number of motorists who continue to use their mobile phone whilst driving is extremely disappointing.

"My message is clear; there is no phone call that is worth risking a life for."

Copyright © Press Association 2010

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