The use of handheld mobile phones while driving was banned (in the UK) in 2003, and for good reason. The latest statistics show that driving on the phone is much more dangerous than previously thought. Government departments and driving charities have carried out several studies to find out more about the effects of this growing trend while driving.

Studies show that there are two reasons why driving by phone is dangerous: first, physically breaking contact with the steering wheel of the vehicle and taking your eyes off the road for prolonged periods (obviously, it is much more dangerous when send text messages). Second, losing focus when engaged in conversation. The second, although just as serious as the first, is a null point as many other distractions can cause the driver to lose concentration, for example talking to passengers, changing the radio (or CD) or even putting on make-up while driving.

These lapses in concentration are now considered more dangerous than driving under the influence of alcohol and are likely to lead to an accident. Lack of concentration when driving the vehicle severely reduces our reaction speed when we are talking on the phone, therefore, when we need to react to an incident on the road, we have much less time than when we drive normally.

There are obvious advantages to having a mobile phone present in the vehicle, 9/10 people carry it as a social habit anyway. However, being able to contact people in the event of a breakdown or other emergencies can be vital in any situation. It is the job of road safety charities and government departments to try to ensure that this is the only time mobile phones are used in the vehicle (by the driver) without the aid of Bluetooth hands-free car kits. .

Police can now impose £30 fines and points on your license for careless and dangerous driving. However, the police force recommends the use of hands-free car kits when driving, as they eliminate the first set of problems when using the mobile phone. Calls can be received and answered via steering wheel controls or voice commands, on a host of new bluetooth car kit products that allow the user to navigate through the phone book, messages and settings without having to pick up the phone.

Driver safety is paramount, if you do anything dangerous while in control of a vehicle you are likely to be penalized at the very least. If you think it’s okay to use a mobile phone while driving, remember this; You are more likely to cause or be involved in an accident while using a mobile phone while driving under the influence of alcohol, and I know you should disregard that.

Government and charity campaigns are starting to catch on with most people and bluetooth hands free kits are becoming very popular, however not many of us use them.

The solution to this problem is simple. In the form of bluetooth hands-free car kits. These kits are readily available and come in two forms, an integrated kit that connects to the vehicle’s stereo and speaker system, and universal bluetooth kits that can be swapped out in different vehicles. The integrated system has much better sound quality and more features than universal kits; however, both significantly reduce the chances of having an accident.