As of 18 June, we are introducing a new policy banning colleagues from using mobile phones, PDAs or any other device that may cause distraction, while driving on behalf of Royal Mail Group. This includes using your phone ‘hands-free’.
This policy, which follows the advice of road safety experts, will apply to all colleagues, including car drivers, whether you’re driving a Royal Mail Group vehicle or your own vehicle for business use.
No call or message is worth a life
UK law does not forbid the use of mobiles devices hands-free, but it does say that drivers must not be distracted while driving.
If you are using a device, even hands-free, your attention will be distracted, and even a moment’s distraction can cause accidents, with devastating consequences.
Research* has found that drivers are four times more likely to crash when talking on the phone at the wheel, even if hands-free. If you are texting while driving, that risk increases to 23 times.
Watch the story of Elaine, who was knocked off her motorbike by someone who was using their mobile hands-free when driving.
*Research findings provided by road safety charity, Brake. Find more details at http://www.brake.org.uk/campaigns/other ... hone-smart" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
