Stamping Out Mobile Phone Use Behind the Wheel

Peter Millichap, director of UK marketing at Teletrac Navman, discusses the impact this year’s police crackdown on drivers using mobile phones will have on the logistics industry

- Peter Millichap

It’s been widely reported this year that the number of motorists caught using mobile phones is massively on the rise, as police try to tackle the driving offence. Under new rules, drivers now get six points on their licence and face a £200 fine. Newly qualified drivers could actually be made to retake their test the first time they are caught.

This massive crackdown on drivers using phones behind the wheel will inevitably impact fleet operators, and they need to consider what they can do to deter their employees from breaking the law.

First and foremost, it is worth investing in technology which can directly and indirectly impact on reducing the risk. Telematics generally lessens the need for mobile communication, as managers don’t need to contact drivers by phone to check where their vehicles are, or to discuss job allocations or route planning – it’s a good solution for communicating safely.