MORE than 180 motorists were caught using mobile phones while driving during a crackdown across Hampshire by police.
A total of 186 drivers were stopped by officers, and nine more were reported for not being in proper control of their vehicle.
During the week of action, 90 per cent of drivers stopped were given fixed penalty notices, two per cent were reported for summons, and eight per cent were given verbal warnings.
In January, before the change in legislation, officers caught 220 people using their mobile phones while driving, and 6 for not being in proper control of their vehicle.
The force has since seen around a 15 per cent decrease in mobile phone use behind the wheel.
Road Safety Sergeant Rob Heard said: “Although we have seen a small decrease in the number of people using their mobile phones whilst driving, it is still disappointing and shocking that people will take that risk.
“That moment’s inattention has proven to be the cause for many collisions, some with fatal consequences.
“We all need to take the responsibility to remove the temptation of looking at your phone whilst driving.
“You can do this easily by turning your phone off and putting it in the glove box.
“Please let’s not have another avoidable death or injury on our roads, it’s not worth the risk.”