Insurance provider Allianz is to treat convictions for driving while speaking on a mobile phone with the same severity as a conviction for careless driving.

Previously, drivers convicted of using a phone whilst driving were penalised with premium increases in line with those caught for speeding offences.

Now, motorists who are convicted of driving while using a telephone will have to pay higher insurance rates in a bid to deter motorists from committing the offence.

Neil Walker, Allianz insurance motor manager, said: "Increasing premiums for drivers with mobile phone convictions reinforces the fact that this is a dangerous and needless act."

Research carried out by insurance provider showed that 56 per cent of motorists saw another driver using a telephone, when driving every day while ten per cent admitted to the crime.


According to the Hunts Post, a recent police crackdown in Cambridgeshire caught more than 200 motorists using a mobile phone whilst driving.

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