Title: Mobile phones and driving - the UK perspective on government policy

Authors: Rob Tunbridge

Addresses: Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), Old Wokingham Road, Crowthorne, Berkshire, RG45 6AU, UK

Abstract: Although there are clear benefits in having mobile phones available in vehicles, there are also potential disbenefits from a safety viewpoint. These have been demonstrated in laboratory situations, in simulators and the road environment. Epidemiological studies also suggest that distraction effects while using a phone can contribute to accidents. The potential benefits of having a phone available in a vehicle, e.g. summoning assistance in the event of a breakdown or alerting emergency services to an incident, must be weighed against the potential risks from a driver using a phone, either hand-held or hands-free, when controlling the vehicle. This paper provides as overview and summary of current GB policy on the use of mobile phones when driving.

Keywords: mobile; phone; accident; risk; driving.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.2001.001930

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 2001 Vol.26 No.1, pp.96-99

Published online: 15 Aug 2003 *

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