BBC reports more UK drivers are using mobile phones regardless of penalties

Researchers in the UK have found more drivers are using mobile phones now, risking higher penalties, than two years ago. Researchers said the 2.6% of car drivers using mobile phonesin 2006 was almost cut in half to 1.4% the following year (2007) when tougherpenalties were brought in. At that time the fine was increased to £60 and 3 points added to the person's license. Since then, however, the number of drivers using mobile phones have been rising, now at 4.8% in 2009. They have also found that women between 17-29 and men between 30-59 are the highest offenders. In the US, some States have already banned Texting while driving, and some are requiring the use of hands-free headsets or in-car Bluetooth while driving. In New York City, cops are giving $130 tickets to any driver who is using a cell phone, on a average of 536 per day.

source: BBC