If you're reading this while driving STOP!

We have a epidemic on our roads.

We get so consumed by our mobile phones that it's a real challenge to put them down. Not managing our compulsion to use them is both anti social and dangerous. In restaurants we're unbelievably playing games to stop us being rude to each other with the first one to touch their phone paying the bill. In the German city of Augsburg the council are trailing traffic lights in the pavement to alert pedestrians to red lights.

And .... as for being on your mobi while driving! This is an epidemic! Over 110 drivers detected in only 3 hours.

You can always spot someone who's distracted by their smart phone. You see the weave then sudden readjustment.

If you have an idea like the restaurant game for the car please comment below.

The Gardaí conducted a targeted mobile phone operation last Saturday 7th May, between 10am and 1pm.

During that time, provisional figures indicate that in excess of 110 drivers were detected holding a mobile phone whilst driving, despite advance warning of this operation being released to the public. The average daily detection rate in 2015 was 76.

An Garda Síochána wish to remind drivers that there will be more targeted operations over the coming days, and, apart from the penalties that apply, distracted driving can lead to a serious or even fatal road traffic collision. We urge all drivers to make that personal choice to put away the mobile phone and concentrate fully on their driving, for their and all other road users safety.

Chief Superintendent Aidan Reid said:-

"It is very disappointing to discover that, even with advance warning, in excess of 110 drivers were found holding a mobile phone whilst driving. There is no doubt such a distraction contributes to collisions. Any distraction, not only mobile phones, can cause a momentary lapse in concentration which could lead to your vehicle veering off course, or preventing you from noticing the red traffic light or the child playing on the road. This high risk behaviour must change, to make the roads safer for all. Please be aware that more such targeted operations will be taking place, so make that choice to put the mobile away.”

Moyagh Murdock CEO, Road Safety Authority said "Your mobile phone makes you four times more likely to crash. But if you are texting you are a staggering twenty-three times more likely to be involved in a collision. When you use your mobile behind the wheel, taking your mind and eyes off the road for just a split second can destroy everything forever. We’re asking drivers to realise how their phones take their attention away from the task at hand. And having your full attention is never more important than when you have the lives of other road users in your hands. Switch off the phone, put it on silent or put it out of reach, but do whatever you need to remove the temptation to use the phone while driving.”