SIXTEEN additional police officers are on patrol in Ayrshire today as part of the latest Police Scotland Local Day of Action.

They will be carrying out high-visibility patrols to reassure local communities and road users and to ensure that the roads in Ayrshire remain safe and are an enjoyable place to be.

The focus today is on road safety with officers targeting areas highlighted as a concern by local communities with an emphasis on targeting those who drive whilst using mobile phones. The risks associated with using a phone whilst driving are well documented and can have life-changing or even fatal consequences.

Any form of distraction reduces your perception of hazards and increases reaction times and this is true for drivers using mobile phones who are slower at recognising and reacting to hazards, making them much more likely to cause deaths and injuries.

Ayrshire Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Paul Main said: “It is disappointing that some irresponsible drivers continue to put themselves and other road users at risk by driving while distracted.

“In March this year, the penalties for driving whilst using a mobile phone increased to six points and a £200 fine, this increase was designed to make drivers think twice and also means that new drivers face having to re-sit their driving test.

“Officers will be carrying out enforcement activity at locations throughout Ayrshire today including locations which local people have highlighted as being a concern. Our message is simple: Don’t drive while distracted, it’s dangerous #DontRiskIt.”

If you are concerned about Road Safety call 101, visit your local police office or visit here and for more information about the impact of driving while distracted, visit THINK!