DRIVERS are being warned there will be no hiding place next week if they are tempted to use their mobile phones while driving.

Cleveland and Durham Specialist Operations Unit (CDSOU) will be out in force across the area on Monday as part of a national campaign to tackle the problem.

Last year there was 720 offences of drivers using their mobile phones and a further 67 found to be not in proper control of their vehicle, which can include eating or drinking, trying to set music on mp3 players, or serious distractions such as an argument with a passenger or being distracted by children or animals who are not suitably restrained.

Inspector Harry Simpson, from the CDSOU, said any drivers taking the risk of using a phone, or being otherwise seriously distracted while at the wheel could expect no second chances.

“We will have a number of officers dedicated to this campaign across the week, using unmarked as well as marked police cars.

“Over the years there have been plenty of educational campaigns so no-one can claim to be unaware this is against the law and also incredibly dangerous.

“There are clearly some people who feel the law doesn’t apply to them. But over the next week they will discover our officers are making this offence a priority and that we have a zero-tolerance approach.”

At present the offence carries a £100 fine and three penalty points. If the case goes to court the offender can also be disqualified from driving or riding, and get a maximum fine of £1,000. Drivers of buses or goods vehicles could get a maximum fine of £2,500.

However, in March the penalties will increase to 6 points and a £200 fine. This could have a huge effect on new drivers in their probationary period, as their licence will be revoked if they receive six penalty points.

Research has found that being distracted by a phone while driving, regardless of whether it is being used to make calls, messages or going online can make a driver up to 25 times more likely to be involved in a collision.

The campaign is also highlighting the dangers of pedestrians and cyclists being distracted on the roads, including pedestrians being less likely to look at traffic before starting to cross or cyclists listening to music.