Allianz Insurance is now treating motorists with convictions for driving whilst using a mobile phone in the same way as it treats careless drivers. It is increasing their car insurance premiums by 30%, highlighting the seriousness of this type of conviction. Previously drivers with a conviction for using a mobile phone while driving had their premium increased in line with motorists with a routine speeding conviction.

"Increasing premiums for drivers with mobile phone convictions reinforces the fact that this is a dangerous and needless act,” comments Neil Walker, Allianz Insurance Motor Manager. “"If you are convicted of using a mobile phone while driving, not only do you face a fine and points on your licence, you will also suffer the added financial burden of increased motor insurance.”

The move has been welcome by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. "We hope this tougher stance against drivers using a mobile phone while at the wheel will persuade more people to switch off their mobiles when they get into their cars and not switch them on again until they are parked safely,” says Kevin Clinton, Head of Road Safety at RoSPA. “"Using a mobile phone while driving, whether handheld or hands-free, makes you four times more likely to crash. We have to do everything possible to encourage people not to put lives at risk in this way."