BBC News
Quote:
New laws target dangerous drivers
People using their mobile phones while driving or not wearing seatbelts are among those being targeted by tougher penalties in Northern Ireland.
The new laws have been announced by Environment Minister Arlene Foster.
From 27 June, car drivers using a hand-held mobile will be liable for three penalty points and a maximum fine of £1,000, lorry drivers a £2,500 fine.
Drivers who fail to wear a seatbelt or ensure that child passengers use them will also receive penalty points.
"Almost all road deaths and injuries are preventable and most are caused by the behaviour of road users," Mrs Foster said.
"These new penalties will send out a clear message to road users that I intend clamping down on irresponsible drivers who think they can ignore the law and put lives at risk."
Last year 19,074 people in Northern Ireland were caught by police for using mobile phones while driving, while 17,876 were detected not wearing their seatbelts.
Among the other measures to be brought in in June are:
A fixed penalty of £60 plus three penalty points for ignoring a temporary speed limit (eg at road works) - with 3-6 penalty points, a fine of up to £1,000 or disqualification if taken to court.
The fine for careless and inconsiderate driving is to increase to a maximum £5,000.
Using a vehicle in a dangerous condition becomes an obligatory disqualification of not less than six months if a similar offence has been committed within the previous three years.
A TV campaign on the dangers of driving while using a mobile and to alert drivers to the change in penalties is to be screened soon.
Other new road safety measures will be introduced later in the year.
How long before this finds it's way over the water?
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