An enforcement campaign, cracking down on people who still drive whilst using their handsets, got under way in Tayside today.

The nation-wide operation is being supported by a Department for Transport with an advertising campaign and will see every force taking part.

Chief Inspector Sandy Bowman, head of road policing in Tayside, said, “This campaign is all about enhancing the safety of all road users.

“I want people to be fully aware of the regulations and I don’t want to see drivers being booked. But if drivers fail to take account of this safety message, the consequences are clear.”

It has been illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving since 2003.

Drivers face a £30 fixed penalty or a fine of up to £1000. New legislation contained in the Road Safety Bill, likely to be ratified by 2006, will increase the fine and mean drivers could face three points on their licence.

Since the turn of the year 1348 motorists have been detected in Tayside.

Chief Inspector Bowman continued, “Quite simply — do not be tempted to use your phone on the move.

“Provided a mobile phone can be operated without holding it, then hands-free equipment is permissible. However, hands-free phones are also distracting.

“If there is a collision caused by your use of the phone, that might justify charges of dangerous or careless driving, which on conviction, can incur heavy penalties.

“It’s too late to think about this after a crash, so divert your phone whilst you are driving — not your attention.

“Switch it off. Missing that call won’t kill you. Risk using a hand-held mobile phone in your car and you could risk more than just a fine.”

It has been suggested the level of use of phones has crept back to the level it was at pre-legislation, but Chief Inspector Bowman said it was impossible to measure as figures were not kept previously.

“I don’t know if we can say that, but its certainly at a higher level than would have been anticipated because of all the media attention. What this is all about is re-emphasising it. We don’t want it to creep up.”

Assistant Chief Constable Ian Learmonth, spokesman on the issue for the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (ACPOS), warned, “Distraction from driving could result in the loss of someone’s life.

“The law is likely to change soon, which will mean if you are caught, points will be added to your licence.

“So get into the habit of driving legally and safely.”