The penalties awaiting motorists who use their mobiles when driving doubled on 1 March, when a tough new regime was launched with a week’s co-ordinated enforcement that involved police forces across the country sending out extra patrols to crack down on motorists who still hadn’t got the ‘no mobile while driving’ message.

Drivers who use their mobiles while they are at the wheel now receive 6 penalty points on their licence and £200 fine – instead of 3 points and a £100 fine – so repeat offenders could find themselves automatically banned.

Drivers who have had their licence less than 2 years also risk having it revoked, while lorry or bus drivers can be suspended if they are caught.

‘Using mobile phones when driving’ clearly spells out when motorists can and cannot use their mobiles in their vehicles

The tougher penalties are also backed by a powerful ‘Think! campaign’, which uses billboard advertising, radio, social media, stickers and other in-car merchandise, as well as a hard-hitting video developed with the AA Charity Trust, to encourage motorists to put their mobiles away.

Members of the public can report offenders anonymously on 0800 555 111 to Crimestoppers, who will pass the information to police forces.