The cantonal police of Valais is launching a prevention campaign this Tuesday on the dangers of using the telephone while driving. It informs the Valaisans that it will carry out more checks to improve safety on the roads in the canton.
The campaign recalls that the use of a telephone while driving changes the behavior of the person behind the wheel in several aspects:
- Decreased controls in mirrors and blind spots.
- Tendency to zigzag and bite the line.
- Reduced attention to signage and other road users.
- Increased reaction time (from 30% to 70%).
- A second of inattention can have particularly serious consequences. At 50 km / h, we cover 14 meters during this time.
The police prevention clip:
How to avoid using your natel?
The police then give some advice to prevent themselves from calling while driving:
- Switch off! The most efficient solution.
- Use the “Drive Mode” app! Drive without taking your eyes off the road and hands off the wheel.
- Anticipate! The super urgent phone call … is before you get behind the wheel.
- Delegate! If you are accompanied, ask your passenger to take the call.
- Take a break! You missed a call … Stop in an appropriate place (parking lot, rest area, parking space) before calling back.
- Beware! Give your full attention to the road even with a hands-free kit.
What possible sanctions?
The police point out that the use of a telephone without a hands-free device while driving is punishable by a fine of 100 francs. Depending on the case, using the phone while driving or using information or communication systems can lead to the withdrawal of a driver’s license, to heavy fines and also to a custodial sentence. In the event of an accident, the driver at fault can also expect reductions in his insurance benefits due to gross negligence.
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