Drivers to get penalty points for surfing smartphones

Drivers are to be given penalty points for using their smartphones under new laws to reduce road deaths. And, in a significant shift, lorry and bus drivers will have to be tested for alcohol and drug use by their own employers.

The measures are included in the new Road Traffic Bill being introduced by transport minister Paschal Donohoe.

Drivers who are caught scrolling on their smartphones while driving will be hit with three ...