Police device to automatically detect when drivers are using mobile phones

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Two UK police forces are planning to install roadside equipment that will automatically detect when motorists are using mobile phones. The campaign is being supported by Kate Goldsmith, whose 11-year-old daughter, Aimee Goldsmith, died after a lorry driver crashed into several cars while using his mobile phone. Ms Goldsmith, who has been campaigning over the use of mobile phones by drivers, said: “I am supporting this campaign and welcome any technology which can assist in educating people and stop them from using their mobile phones whilst driving. “My son Jake was travelling in the car behind the one that Aimee was travelling in, thankfully he was uninjured, but he literally saw the moment that killed his sister.” Westcotec managing director Chris Spinks said: “Our system is designed to provide intelligence to police officers so that they can carry out enforcement activity in order to reduce the amount of people who are using mobile phones illegally on our roads.” If a driver is caught using a mobile phone at the wheel they are currently fined £200 and given six points on their licence.