Say yes to cheaper van, home and car insurance

A course aimed at reducing the number of drivers using their mobile phones behind the wheel has been described as "eye-opening".

The Oxford Mail has stated that 170 drivers in Oxfordshire have attended the Call Divert course as punishment for being found on the phone while on the road.

It added that the two-and-a-half hour session - which drivers can choose to take instead of a fine and points - teaches motorists how driving while using the device is just as dangerous as taking to the wheel under the influence of alcohol

Being caught in the act for either crime can often result in picking up a conviction that can make future car insurance policies more expensive.

"It is not a finger-waving exercise. We want to explain why police are treating this so seriously and I think education can play a part," said course trainer Vicky Lovell.

Earlier this year, the Department for Transport increased the punishment for driving using a handheld phone to a £60 fine and a three-point licence penalty.

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