31 August 2010 Last updated at 06:45 ET

Campaign against texting and driving begins in Slough

Research suggests texting while driving impairs drivers more than being under the influence of drugs

A campaign aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of texting and driving has begun in Slough.

As part of the initiative, a billboard featuring a mobile phone with the text, "Hi darling, just about to run someone over", has been put up in Ledgers Road.

Police caught 32 drivers using mobiles phones during a recent one-day check on Farnham Road, the council said.

Drivers face a £60 fine and three penalty points on their licence for using mobiles while driving.

Research carried out by the RAC Foundation in 2008 suggested texting while driving impairs motorists more than being under the influence of drink or drugs.

A new offence of causing death by careless driving came into force in August the same year.

Motorists who kill after allowing themselves to lose concentration by avoidable distractions - such as reading a text message, glancing at a map, eating and putting on make up - can be imprisoned for up to five years.