Three caught driving while using mobile phones in bad weather

Police in Lerwick caught three drivers using their mobile phones at the wheel during one of the worst days of the recent spell of bad weather.

The incidents, recorded last Thursday when heavy snow seriously hampered road conditions, came during a nationwide crackdown on drivers who persist on using their mobiles while on the move.

The safety drive was also intended to stop motorists who do not wear their seat belts, although no-one was caught in Shetland failing to comply with that particular legislation.

Nevertheless, Inspector Ross MacKillop said flouting the law concerning mobile phones was particularly disturbing given the weather situation at the time. The drivers in question were each issued with fixed penalties.

“On Thursday 25th February we were taking part in a national campaign for seatbelts and mobile phones while driving.

“As you may remember we had horrendous weather in Shetland that day, so it was surprising that we still managed to find people driving while using a mobile phone, in conditions which were hard enough to drive with your full focus of attention on the roads.

“The positive thing was there was nobody found without wearing seatbelts whatsoever.

“We’d like to remind drivers there are obvious dangers with using a mobile phone while behind the wheel. You’re not in full control, and apart from facing a fine and points on your licence you could be involved in a very serious accident.”