One in five young drivers feel obliged to answer phone behind the wheel

One in five young drivers feels obliged to answer calls or messages while driving, according to a new study by the Flemish Foundation for Traffic Studies (VSV). A campaign and extra police checks are being introduced to combat this dangerous habit.

"Concentrate on the road, not the screen" is the message of a new campaign aimed at Flemish drivers. Young people in particular need to hear this message, according to a survey of 600 Flemish drivers carried out by the VSV. Among drivers under 30, 20 per cent feel pressured to answer messages or calls while driving, compared to 7 per cent of drivers aged 30 to 54.

Young drivers also consider it less risky to use a smartphone while driving. Only 78 per cent of 18-29 year olds think it is dangerous to read messages while driving, compared to 91 per cent of 40-54 year olds. 15 per cent of all drivers say they use their phone when they are bored.

Police checks

The campaign is being launched alongside extra police enforcement of mobile phone use while driving on Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 October. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless it is in a cradle. The VSV recommends that the phone is connected to the car's multimedia system and placed out of sight.

Offenders risk an immediate fine of 174 euros plus administrative costs. The public prosecutor can also request the immediate withdrawal of the driver's licence, and a fine of up to 4,000 euros. The law is even stricter for novice drivers, who receive a temporary driving ban and must retake the theory or practical test. Last year, 66,226 Flemish drivers were caught.

 

#FlandersNewsService | © GREG BAKER / AFP

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