Peer pressure shames mobile phone motorists

I'm in the car

4 October 2006 12:43 GMT / By Jonathan Goddard

Motorists are not using their mobile phones at the wheel because of peer pressure and not due to concerns about getting collared by the police, according to new research.

Using a mobile phone whilst driving has become as anti-social as dropping litter or queue jumping and has resulted in a number of angry confrontations between drivers. Last month, several motorists had their tyres slashed and a note left on their windscreens advising them not to use their mobiles while driving - the vigilante remains unknown to the Police.

Fifty-eight per cent of motorists admitted they felt intimidated by other motorists if they used their mobile phone while driving, as opposed to 38% who felt under pressure to drive legally, according to Car Parts Direct.

Mark Cornwall of Car Parts Direct said, “The possible health risks of continually having a phone to the head or even the prospect of a prison sentence for a motorist in the event of an accident has not been enough to encourage some drivers to use a hands free kit - It’s the stern stare of displeasure and a shake of the head from law abiding motorists that is helping to bring results.”

The company also called for motorists to use better quality hands-free kits, which are easier to use and have better sound quality.