New mobile phone laws for drivers in force from today

New legislation comes into force today which will see drivers who text or email behind the wheel liable for a 1-thousand euro fine.

The Road Safety Authority says the extension of the Road Traffic Act is essential – because people who use a phone while driving are four times more likely to be involved in a crash.

Anyone caught “accessing information” on a phone will be given a mandatory court summons and fine – with the figure rising to 2 thousand euro – and a possible three month jail term – for second offences.