Drivers 'putting lives at risk' by texting

The government has launched a new campaign aimed at raising awareness on the dangers of using a mobile phone while driving.

As part of the advertising campign to reduce road deaths called THINK!, hard-hitting radio and television adverts will be used to help warn motorists about texting while behind the wheel.

Jim Fitzpatrick, the road safety minister, commented that those doing so are not giving their full attention to driving.

He added that some motorists are "needlessly risking their own lives and putting others in danger" by failing to heed warnings regarding the dangers of using a handset while on the move.

Mr Fitzpatrick stated: "Our message to all drivers is simple: Don’t use your mobile phone when you’re driving."

According to a study by THINK!, while 86 per cent of adults completely agree that texting while behind the wheel is dangerous, this figure dropped to 67 per cent for those in the 16 to 24 age range.

The National Audit Office reported this week that the THINK! campign appeared to have little measurable effect on road casualties.

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