Following news that the government is considering harsher penalties for people who use a mobile phone while driving, research by car insurance provider Direct Line reveals that over two thirds of British motorists would support the measures.

They could include an increase in penalty points or larger fines for drivers caught using their mobile behind the wheel.

According to previous studies by the firm's car insurance experts, drivers' reaction times are 30 per cent slower when talking on a hand-held mobile phone compared to being at the legal drink-drive limit.

Under current legislation, motorists convicted for using a mobile phone while driving receive three points on their licence and are issued with a £60 fine.

However, the number of motorists convicted of phone-related offences is still in stark contrast to the number who actually talk on their mobile or surf the web on their iPhone while driving.

Andy Goldby from Direct Line says more needs to be done to deter motorists from the "dangerous" practice: "Too many people are either still unaware that using a mobile phone can be a major distraction to their concentration while driving, or are simply ignoring the rules of the road."

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