Mobile phone usage could be a thing of the past if government plans to introduce technology that automatically stops them from working in moving cars becomes a reality.
The Department for Transport (DfT) is reportedly considering implementing new technology that would block phone signal for drivers.
The software would make mobiles virtually useless by disabling any function that requires internet access or connection to a telephone network.
Ministers are to meet car manufacturers and mobile companies in the new year to discuss the plan.
The move comes after almost one in three motorists admitted to having used their phone while driving, and 17,500 people were taken to court last year.
A DfT spokesman said: “We are determined to crack down on mobile phone use at the wheel. Our plans to double penalties for this serious crime should act as an incredibly strong deterrent. We will continue to explore what more can be done to tackle this crime.”
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