EXCLUSIVE: The huge number of drivers still glued to their mobiles

Forth News can reveal police across Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife are catching more than two motorists a day on their phones.

Published 31st Jul 2017
Last updated 31st Jul 2017

Hundreds of drivers across Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife are still risking lives and their driving licenses by using their mobile phone behind the wheel.

Forth News can reveal police in our area are catching more than two motorists a day taking calls and messages.

That's despite the punishment for the offence being increased to 6 penalty points and a fine of £200 at the beginning of March this year.

Our exclusive figures show that between 1st March and 30th June, 293 people were caught using a mobile phone while driving in Edinburgh and the surrounding area.

Michael McDonnell from Road Safety Scotland told us: "It looks as if people are just ignoring these penalties, although they are quite severe.

"68 percent of Scots say they have noticed someone texting behind the wheel, and 90 percent of Scots have seen someone using their mobile phone behind the wheel.

"Obviously, this is something that people continue to do".