MOTORISTS are being reminded of the new mobile phone laws that came into play on Monday.

People using their phones while driving are now at risk of being fined £30, which can rise to £1,000 if the matter goes to court.

And for van, lorry, bus and coach drivers, the cost could be £2,500.

Sgt Ian Stott, of the Warrington Road Policing Unit, said: "Mobile phones are a major distraction for drivers. I would advise motorists to switch them to voicemail, or switch them off before they start their journey."

According to RAC research, a third of motorists are either unaware that the new law will make it illegal to use a mobile while driving, or will deliberately defy it.

But the Department of Transport states that you are four times more likely to be involved in a road traffic collision when you are driving and using a mobile.

The Highways Agency has been trying to get the message home by programming more than 100 of its roadside variable message signs with the words 'Think! Don't phone while driving'.