Inspector Mark Britton of the Roads Policing Unit provides an update on the summertime Campaign on combating mobile phone use by drivers. He says “The Kill your Call not Someone else campaign ran in partnership with the Department of Infrastructure, Manx Telecom and 3fm during April/May 2010. Twelve people appeared in front of Michael Moyle (ex-High Bailiff) sitting on behalf of the Magistrates Court today, Wednesday 29th September 2010. Sentences of a ?250 fine were passed down to the offenders. This is a positive message that using a mobile phone whilst driving is not safe, it is illegal and we will act to enforce the law. ” Inspector Britton continued that “ I would continue to urge motorists to use safer options when it comes to the dangers created by using mobile phones while driving. The ‘Kill your call – not someone else’ campaign was more hard-hitting than similar campaigns in recent years as police aim to emphasise that using mobiles while driving creates a significantly increased risk of having an accident. There are alternatives and people should stay within the law and use hands free kits. Statistically it has been shown that motorists using a mobile phone while driving are 50 per cent more likely to have an accident than when they’re not using a mobile phone,” said Inspector Britton. “Being aware of the road ahead, rather than concentrating on a phone call, is clearly very important in regard to road safety. If drivers have to use their mobiles while driving they should use hands free systems.” He added “ Our next coordinated campaign is against vehicle standards. As we reach that time of year when the nights are drawing in and we all start to notice those “one eye monsters” Operation Bright Lights will see the Constabulary work with the Department of Infrastructure to combat poor standards of vehicles with the focus on headlights.” Ends