The initiative is intended to reinforce legislation introduced 18 months ago that increases penalties for using a mobile 'phone while driving or supervising a driver.

In the 18 months prior to the introduction of increased penalties, 3972 people were given a conditional offer of £30.

That figure has almost halved to 2109 offenders, a reduction of 46.9 per cent in the 18 months since the penalty was increased to a £60 fine and 3 points on the driver's licence.

Chief Inspector Bowman, head of road policing in Tayside, said: "No one can fail to recognise the significant reduction in the number of offenders and it is a welcome drop. However, the figures still suggest that more needs to be done.

"This legislation is about making our roads safer for everyone. Drivers must consider the implications of trying to drive and using a mobile phone at the same time. Research shows that reactions times are about 50 per cent slower and that people are four times more at risk of being involved in a collision, when driving and on the 'phone."

Officers throughout the force area will be reminding motorists of their obligations and responsibilities. Anyone who fails to comply is at risk of being penalised.

Chief Inspector Bowman continued: "Though a £60 penalty may be an expense to some and an inconvenience to others, I would suggest the three-point endorsement on a driving licence is certainly significant to anyone who is caught.

"Those three points represent one step towards the loss of a licence and potentially someone's livelihood. It is worth reminding drivers who have held a full licence for less than two years that they can only receive six penalty points before having their driving entitlement withdrawn."

Drivers using hands-free devices can also be liable to a fine of £60 and three points if they are not in proper control of their vehicle or have a full view of the road ahead.

The advice is clear - Switch off before you drive off!