Trakm8 is now offering a product that could help stop fleet drivers falling foul of tougher penalties on using handheld mobile phones behind the wheel.

The CellControl solution blocks driver access to specific applications.

Effective from today across England, Wales and Scotland, the new law will see offenders given a £200 fine and six penalty points; an increase from the minimum £100 fine and three penalty points issued previously.

However, research carried out by Trakm8 last year suggested that only 16% of drivers agreed that the introduction of heavier punishments would stop them from using their mobile at the wheel.

In response Trakm8 says fleets can help prevent illegal smartphone distractions using the CellControl solution. Offered in the UK by Trakm8, the in-cab device combines with software and a smartphone app to block driver access to specific applications such as phone calls, social media, text messaging and music, while the vehicle is moving.

If drivers attempt to access restricted applications or unlock their device while driving, breaches are logged on the CellControl software and available to fleet managers in downloadable reports. Phone calls to emergency services are exempt from the restriction and calls of this nature can be made at any time.

The in-cab device is solar powered therefore can be installed in vehicles of all types and sizes, requiring no installation time or costs.

CellControl is compatible with Android, Apple iOS, Blackberry, Windows and Symbian devices.

Colin Ferguson, managing director of fleet and optimisation at Trakm8, said: “It is a misconception that mobile phone use amongst employees is an unaddressable risk but this product gives business the opportunity to ensure their mobile phone policies are enforced.”

Trakm8 has also recently published a whitepaper discussing how the new laws will affect fleet managers and exploring how technology can be used to combat driver distraction. ‘The Fleet Manager’s Guide: Changes to the Law on Mobile Phone Use While Driving’ can be downloaded here: https://get.trakm8.com/the-fleet-managers-guide-to-changes-to-mobile-phone-law.

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