Police forces are running a targeted operation this week to crack down on mobile phone use and highlight the consequences of distracted driving.

The DfT is currently pushing ahead to double the points and fine for drivers using a hand held phone

The operation will include dedicated patrols by officers using unmarked vans, helmet cams, high-seated vehicles and high vantage points to catch offenders. It will also run pilot schemes with community spotters to target repeat offenders.

This follows a similar campaign in May of this year resulted in 2,323 offences detected across the week.

A recent 2016 annual report on motoring by the RAC suggests the number of motorists who illegally use mobile phones is rising with 31% of motorists admitting to using a handheld phone while driving up from 8% in 2014.

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for roads policing, chief constable Suzette Davenport said: “Forces are coming together this week with innovative approaches to catching those driving when distracted and campaign to make drivers think twice about using their mobiles at the wheel.

“Tackling mobile phone use by drivers requires police enforcement using new technology and tactics to maximise the numbers of people we can stop, combined with strong effective penalties and creative national campaigns to make driving distracted as socially unacceptable as drink driving.

“When you’re getting in your car, remember don’t put others at risk – keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.”