The number of people caught using their mobile phone whilst driving in Bristol has increased five-fold in the space of just four years.
It has been an offence to use a mobile phone for making calls, sending messages or accessing the internet while driving in England, Scotland or Wales since 2003.
That rule was amended in 2022 though, with drivers caught holding and using a device for any reason (unless in an emergency) now receiving a penalty of a £200 fine and six penalty points, something called a CU80 endorsement.
The number of CU80 endorsements issued to GB drivers has risen from 6,431 in 2020 to 39,085 in 2023. That’s six-times higher in the space of just three years.
There has also been a huge rise across Bristol.
There were 448 CU80 endorsements dished out to drivers in the BS postcode area in 2023. That’s five-times higher than the 90 endorsements back in 2020.
You can see how many drivers have been caught in your local area by using our interactive map.
The figures have come to light thanks to a FOI request to the DVLA from the temporary car insurance experts, Dayinsure.
They found that while Bradford and London may be hotspots for drivers using their phones, those in Stockport are more cautious.
There has been the equivalent of just one CU80 endorsement in the SK postcode area for every 1,189 drivers living there between 2020 and 2023.
That’s the lowest ratio of any postcode area in Great Britain.
Carlisle had the next lowest ratio (one for every 1,135 drivers), followed by Lerwick (one per 1,058 drivers), Chester (one per 1,028 drivers), and Lancaster (one per 1,024 drivers).
Commenting on the data, Nicholas Shaw, Director of Operations at Dayinsure said: “Whilst it may be tempting to check your phone when it vibrates or lights up, even a brief distraction can have devastating consequences.
“Driving while using a phone diverts your attention from the road, making accidents more likely. It significantly impairs your ability to respond to unexpected situations and safely maintain control of your vehicle.
“A quick check of a message or social media notification is not worth risking your life for, or the lives of others.
“If you need to use your phone, find a safe place to pull over first and turn off your engine. Remember, the safety of everyone on the road is your responsibility.”