New research from insurer LV= has revealed the extent to which motorists across the UK are continuing to flout the law and use a mobile phone when driving.

According to a poll of more than 1,700 UK motorists carried out by the company, almost half (48 per cent) of respondents said they see other road users on their phones while in charge of a vehicle at least once per day.

Meanwhile, almost one-quarter (24 per cent) stated they see this type of dangerous behaviour more than once.

Perhaps more worryingly, as many as 29 per cent admitted to regularly texting while at the wheel and 50 per cent said they would regularly read a text while driving.

Respondents were also asked to highlight what they believe to be the most dangerous activities that drivers regularly either undertake or see others doing, with drink-driving (59 per cent) shown to be top of the concerns list.

However, this was followed by driving under the influence of drugs (19 per cent), using a mobile phone while in charge of a vehicle (seven per cent), speeding (seven per cent) and doing make-up while driving (five per cent).

The most common reasons individuals gave for using a mobile while at the wheel were:

1. checking text messages (50 per cent)
2. answering a call (48 per cent)
3. checking online maps (32 per cent)
4. sending a text message (29 per cent)
5. making a phonecall (27 per cent)

Responding to the results, managing director of LV= car insurance John O'Roarke said: "Although it can be tempting to quickly check your mobile, it is essential that drivers keep their eyes on the road at all times.

"There can be enough surprises without the additional distraction of a mobile phone, and drivers need to be ready to react, to help improve safety for themselves and other drivers."