Government is to bring in legislation banning drivers and riders from using cell phones.

Making the revelation in the Senate yesterday Attorney General Larry Mussenden said drivers could also be prosecuted under current law if they are considered to be driving dangerously or without due care and attention.

He said: ?Government is in the process of bringing in legislation dealing with the use of cell phones while riding bikes or driving.?

And he urged drivers to switch to hands-free devices. Mr. Mussenden said the legislation would not come until the next Parliamentary session in November.

His comments followed that of Opposition Senator Kenny Bascome who said he narrowly avoided having an accident this week after a water truck driver veered into his path while chatting on his cell.

Statistics show inattention accounts for 60 percent of road collisions.

Police say cell phones are one distraction, along with in-car music or a conversation with a fellow passenger.

And those who shove phones in their helmets are more likely to suffer neck injuries if they crash because their straps are looser.