Industry News from Yes Insurance

New tests have shown the danger of using a mobile phone while behind the wheel, it has been reported.

Research from Hertfordshire council's road safety unit has found that a motorist chatting and driving at the same time takes two-and-a-half times longer to stop their vehicle, according to the Welwyn & Hatfield Times.

The average stopping distance was found to be 28 metres when not on the phone, but while talking on the handheld device, surveyors clocked 20 per cent of distances at more than 100 metres.

An accident can risk lives as well have a serious affect on a car insurance policy.

"In an emergency situation most of the tested drivers would not have been able to stop in time to avoid a collision or a pedestrian, simply because they were distracted by their mobile phone," said county councillor Stuart Pile.

On February 27th 2007, the Department for Transport introduced new penalties for using a handheld phone on the road.

Offending motorists can now be fined £60 and penalised three licence penalty points.

© Adfero Ltd