A push is on to ban drivers from using phones altogether – hands-free or otherwise.

But, even without the introduction of a total ban, 212 motorists have been fined in Port during the past six months for illegally using their mobiles.

The cost for this offence rose to $243, from $238, and the loss of three demerit points, on Tuesday.

Researcher Mark Stevenson says using a hands-free set might mean you won’t receive a ticket – but will not necessarily prevent an accident.

Professor Stevenson, the director of the injury prevention and trauma care division at the University of Sydney’s George Institute for International Health, wants mobile phones banned in cars.

“Using a mobile phone is the leading distraction for drivers,” he said. “Our research shows you are 3.7 times more likely to have an accident while using a hands-free set.”

Mr Stevenson started his research, which was published in the British Medical Journal, in 2005. It was funded by the Institute for Highway Safety and the Australian government’s National Health and Medical Research Council.

He wants laws about the use of phones in cars changed, but says we need to alter public attitudes first.

“Many larger companies now have it in their contracts that their employees are not to use the phone unless they are pulled over,” he said.

“Crashes caused by people speaking on the phone can be easily stopped by removing the phone.” But Jason Andrew, from Fastway Couriers, says working without his mobile is like trying to run without legs.

The 49-year-old, a courier for more than 10 years, said his vehicle was his office.

“If I can’t use my hands-free the day would be a lot longer and more awkward,” he said.

“But I can understand where they are coming from because even when I use the hands-free I can miss a turn if I’m talking.”

Port Macquarie police agree a total ban on using a phone in the car was not practical, but acknowledge the devices were distracting.

Mid-North Coast traffic supervisor Sergeant John Carrero urged drivers to pull over when the phone rings.

“Mobile phones are a distraction even with hands-free,” Sgt Carrero said. “But if you ban phones, then where does it stop in terms of two-way radios and other communication devices?”