Using your mobile phone at the wheel increases the risk of an accident four-fold

A new campaign was launched by the DGT Central Traffic Authority this Monday, aimed at cracking down on those who use their mobile phone while driving. Europa Press reports that such behaviour can increase the risk of an accident four-fold, and is comparable in this way to driving under the influence of alcohol.

The DGT has warned that a driver will fail to notice 40% of traffic signals after a minute and a half’s conversation on the phone, even if using a hands-free model. Average speed will drop by 12% and reaction time will be longer. Close to 350,000 licence points were lost last year in Spain to drivers who used their phone at the wheel, representing almost 13% of all the points which were lost during 2008.

Driver distraction counted for a third of all the accidents which took place last year. Europa Press lists some of the actions which can cause drivers to take their eyes off the road: 13 seconds lost while dialling a number on your mobile phone; 8 seconds to answer a call; 4 to light a cigarette; and between 5 and 6 seconds to adjust the radio or to put on a CD.

A car travelling at 120 kph can cover more than the length of a football field in just three 3 seconds.

The campaign runs until 22nd November and is accompanied by TV and radio advertising, with messages also posted on the informative panels installed on the main roads in Spain. (Via Original Article)

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