Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram   

Say no to mobile phones while driving

Speaking on mobile phones while driving found to be the biggest accident-causing factor after drunken driving, writes G. Anand

Traffic accidents caused by the use of mobile phones while driving has been on the increase in the city, according to the police. Nearly 69 persons were killed in traffic accidents in the city this year till June 12. As many as 690 road users sustained serious injuries.

Circle Inspector, Traffic, Radhakrishnan, said speaking on mobile phones while driving was reckoned to be the biggest traffic accident-causing factor in the city after drunken driving.

This year the traffic police had booked 138 motorists on the charge of using mobile phones while driving. They were prosecuted for reckless driving under section 184 of the Motor Vehicle Act that carries a fine of Rs.1000.

Most of those who were fined were youth riding two wheelers. According to police, only a fraction of those who violate the law regarding the use of mobile phones are actually made to pay a fine. Most motorists are let off with a warning. However, the enforcement would be made stricter in the coming days, a senior official said. This year, the police booked 386 motorists on the charge of drunken driving. The police recommended the suspension of their licenses for a period of six months.

A recent police department presentation circulated to officials on e-mail pointed out that speaking on cell phones while driving was mentally demanding.

The use of mobile phones while on the move also drastically delayed the driver's reaction time to traffic hazards and greatly reduced his field of vision.

The presentation said that motorists using mobile phones while driving was four times more likely to get involved in an accident in normal traffic conditions.

The accident risk caused by the use of cell phone was comparable only to the hazards of drunken driving.

According to police, even speaking on a `hands-free' mobile phone set while driving was as risky as drunken driving. Drivers involved in telephone conversations showed significantly slower response to traffic signals, the report quoting traffic studies said.

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Say no to mobile phones while driving

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