Police catch 15 drivers using phones in just 30 minutes on M27

Hampshire police targeted drivers at rush hour on the M27 in a bid to stop mobile phone use at the wheel yesterday.

Officers took to Twitter and said 15 drivers were caught – in just 30 minutes.

‘Fifteen drivers on their mobile phones in just under 30 minutes. M27 rush hour. #notworththerisk #HantsCVU,’ the officers posted.

Roads policing officers have previously warned against the ‘fatal four’ factors that lead to crashes that kill.

They are speed, distraction while driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, and drug or alcohol impairment.

Distraction includes using a mobile phone while driving.

Hampshire police’s Road Safety Officer Sergeant Rob Heard said: ‘I’ve been at far too many collisions where these four have been a factor in the collision.

‘Many people have lost their lives unnecessary, causing heartache, and destroying families.

‘Our key message is that “it’s not worth the risk”.’

It comes as police and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service is championing a scheme called Project Pictogram, which warns of the fatal four factors.

The scheme involves stickers showing the dangers.

Speaking at the launch last year, Sgt Heard added: ‘We want these symbols to give people that little nudge to drive more safely.

‘The “nudge” theory is a widely acknowledged behavioural science concept that subtle, indirect suggestions can influence motives and behaviour change.’

Drivers are given a £100 fixed penalty notice for using a phone at the wheel with three penalty points.

Motorists taken to court face a ban and a maximum £1,000 fine.