HUNDREDS of drivers have been caught flouting the law as part of a police safety sting.

The campaign cracked down on those putting lives at risk by using their mobile phones on the road, with almost 200 caught taking calls at the wheel.

Hampshire police revealed this week that 178 drivers were ticketed in last week’s operation, run in partnership with Thames Valley and Isle of Wight police.

As reported in last week’s Andover Advertiser, the major crackdown was launched after figures revealed that nearly 16,000 motorists were caught using handheld phones and electronic devices across the three counties between March 31 and April 1 last year.

More than 5,000 of those were from the Hampshire Constabulary area.

By law, it is illegal to hold handheld phones while driving, queuing in traffic, stopping at traffic lights or while supervising learners.

Drivers caught using handsfree phones, sat navs and twoway radios may also be penalised if police feel they are distracted or not in control of their vehicles.

Punishments can range from an automatic fixed penalty notice of three points on a driver’s licence and a £100 fine to disqualification and a £1,000 fine, if the case goes to court.

Sergeant Rob Heard, from Hampshire police, said: “It is disappointing that so many people are not understanding the dangers of using a mobile phone while driving, especially in areas where there are a multiple number of hazards that drivers need to concentrate on.

“I would urge everyone to turn off their phones when driving, or put them on silent and out of reach to avoid the temptation. No call or text is worth causing injury or death.”