TRAFFIC cops will be out in force across the Black Country this week as part of a national clampdown on drivers using mobile phones at the wheel.

Marked and unmarked units from West Midlands Police’s Force Traffic and CMPG will patrol the region’s motorways and A-roads from today (Saturday May 23) until May 29, looking for people making calls, texting or accessing the internet from devices while driving.

They’ll be supported by traffic ‘spotters’ in plain clothes who’ll be stationed at major road junctions to identify offenders, while a police HGV unit will give officers a lofty view to catch any truckers flouting the law.

Last year the force issued in excess of 2,500 fixed penalty tickets to drivers for using phones at the wheel, while government figures suggest mobile phone use will soon be the biggest killer on UK roads.

Chief Inspector Kerry Blakeman, from West Midlands Police Force Traffic, said: “It’s disappointing so many people are flouting a law introduced 10 years ago − and by doing so are putting themselves, their passengers, and other road users in danger.

“There is no definable profile for offenders: there’s the Facebook browser, the businessman calling ahead to say he’ll be late for a meeting, the text message addict, and even people watching video clips while driving.

“It’s about time the message started to get through and it’s a simple one - don’t reach for your phone while driving. If that phone call or text message can’t wait then pull over and do it safely."

Offenders can expect three points on their licence and a £100 fixed penalty − but any repeat offenders or particularly negligent drivers could find themselves with a date in court.