Gardai have launched an operation targeting drivers using mobile phones over the next few days.
Over 28 thousand drivers were caught holding a mobile phone behind the wheel last year – that's 76 a day.
Gardai are telling drivers to switch their phone off before they drive off – the message is, no call is worth it.
Their campaign is highlighting that distracted driving, including talking or texting on a hand held mobile phone, is a high risk activity which must be addressed.
Anyone who holds the mobile phone in their hand, between their ear and their shoulder, or for texting or accessing the internet on their phone while behind the wheel is breaking the law.
In 2015, 28 thousand people were found to have been holding a mobile phone while driving, the second highest offence detected nationally.
Holding a mobile phone whilst driving carries a fixed charge notice of 3 penalty points and 80 euro fine.
But taking calls on hands free kits are NOT against the law.
