The UK's Department for Transport is launching a new advertising campaign highlighting the dangers of using a cellphone while driving. The campaign draws on a Canadian research study that demonstrates that if you drive and use a mobile phone you are four times more likely to have an accident. The message has the strapline: "Think! Switch it off before you drive."
Radio ads, posters and a TV advert convey how difficult it is to concentrate on two things at the same time. Being distracted by a phone will impair a driver's concentration, which will increase the chances of an accident.
Road Safety Minister David Jamieson said "More and more people own mobile phones and research has shown that using them whilst driving greatly increases the risk of an accident. Even the most careful of drivers will be distracted by a phone call or text message, and that will affect their concentration and anticipation. Our advice is to use your voicemail or message service or to stop in a safe place - not a motorway hardshoulder - if you need to use your phone. Missing a call won't kill you - an accident quite possibly could."
You can watch the television commercial here'"
Posted to the site on 8th May 2002
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