83 percent of drivers feel it is safe to use phone while driving

In a survey conducted by Samsung, a majority 83 percent of drivers interviewed feel that it is safe for them to use their phones while driving. They have also admitted to doing so. However when asked the opposite, more than 90 percent of drivers think it is unsafe for other drivers to use their mobile phones while driving.

The Korean Electronics firm felt that complacency displayed by drivers seemed to be a key factor in their unsafe behaviour. It launched a road safety campaign last month, with the increasing trend of motorists being booked for using their phones while driving. A survey was also commissioned to study the driving habits and collect views on the use of mobile phones from 513 drivers.

Police statistics showed that 2,755 summons were issued for phone-related driving offences in the first nine months of this year - a substantial increase from 1,893 from the same period last year. Under the Road Traffic Act, first-time offenders can be fined up to $1,000, sentenced for a jail term of up to six months, or both. Offenders will also be penalised with 12 demerit points and have their mobile phones confiscated by the Traffic Police for investigations.