A RECKLESS motorist in Coventry who was using a banking app while driving was one of 115 people caught using a mobile phone at the wheel in the West Midlands in just a fortnight.
The operation ran from February 8 to 21 and of those caught, 70 were either texting or on a phone call.
Others were watching videos.
Statistics show using a handheld mobile at the wheel can see a driver’s reactions become a third slower than someone drink-driving and motorists are four times more likely to crash.
Officers also used the Operation Tramline HGV on the region’s motorways which enable culprits to be seen easier because of the high position of the cab.
There were 20 drivers caught using mobile phones that way.
Those caught received fines, penalty points and court summons. Some verbal warnings were also issued to highlight issues and educate motorists.
Sgt Jon Butler, from WMP’s Road Harm Prevention Team, said: “If you’re travelling for essential reasons then ensure you keep your hands on the wheel and off the phone.
“Using a mobile while driving can have devastating consequences to both the driver and other road users.
“It may take only a few seconds to glance at your phone and open an app but that’s all it takes for a potentially fatal or life changing collision to unfold.
“Distractions can be deadly, don’t put lives at risk, put your phone away while driving.”
Members of the public are encouraged to submit dash-cam footage illustrating such illegal behaviour via the online reporting portal at west-midlands.police.uk website.
