Scores of motorists fall foul of cell phone law
A police clampdown on motorists using cell phones has landed 147 people in court since the start of the year.Eleven tickets were issued to persons caught using a hand-held device while riding a motor or auxiliary cycle between January 1 and February 16, police spokesman Robin Simmons said.“The remaining 136 tickets were issued for using cell phones or other hand-held mobile devices while operating a car.”The new law is designed to enhance safety on Bermuda’s roads, and encourages motorists to maintain their focus while operating a motorised vehicle.Road safety officer David Minors told The Royal Gazette last month: “As of November 30, 2011, there were 1,792 collisions reported in Bermuda, and 646 of those collisions were due to ‘inattention’ which includes distracted driving, following too close, etc.“Moreover, 920 people had been injured.”Persons found guilty under the Traffic Offences (Penalties) Act 2011 can be fined anywhere from $500 to $1,000.