Trade groups react to phone penalty proposals

Both the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and Freight Transport Association (FTA) have responded to a recently launched consultation by the Department for Transport (DfT) into proposed increases in penalties for using a mobile phone while driving.

The consultation, which is open until 15 March, seeks views on potentially increasing the fixed penalty notice level from £100 to £150 for all drivers.

Of specific interest to the road transport industry, however, is a proposal to increase the number of penalty points from three to six for those that commit the offence while driving an HGV. A more modest increase, from three to four points, is proposed for non-HGV drivers.

The RHA said it welcomed the consultation, with chief executive Richard Burnett stating: “Far too many road accidents, some resulting in death, are due to driver distraction, and we believe that the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving ranks high on the list.

“This proposed legislation sends a clear message to motorists and HGV drivers that if they are caught, the fines will be considerable and for many, could have a real impact on their ability to work.”

The RHA cited a survey it carried out in 2015, which found that one in ten hauliers have a policy of dismissing drivers found guilty of mobile phone offences – but it said the whole industry saw the issue as serious.

“We see the proposed increase in fixed penalty points from three to six for HGV drivers caught committing this offence as a step in the right direction,” Burnett added.

“However, as with any legislation designed to deter, the proposed measures will only have an impact if they are effectively policed. Unfortunately, since 2010, roads policing numbers have fallen by 23 per cent.”

FTA shared concerns about enforcement, suggesting improvements in this area were needed before penalties were increased – and adding that the use of modern technology and cameras should be able to assist the authorities in identifying and prosecuting lawbreakers.

It cited findings of recent studies suggesting that talking on a mobile phone could impair driving ability even more than being above the drink-driving limit.

“FTA members have told us that whilst they welcome the increase in sanctions, they believe there is a definite need for better enforcement against drivers using mobile phones when behind the wheel,” said Ian Gallagher, FTA head of policy for Wales and the south west.

“We know that many already have a zero-tolerance approach to their drivers using a handheld mobile device in their terms and conditions of employment, and a single offence would mean the driver losing their job.

“HGV drivers are also subject to regulation by the traffic commissioners, and a second offence could lead to a two or three-week suspension of their HGV licence.”