A FlixBus driver has been suspended after being caught on camera using a mobile phone while driving at 63mph on a coach heading to Plymouth, prompting serious safety concerns.
The incident came to light after a concerned passenger snapped a photograph showing the driver unlawfully using their mobile phone, despite travelling at high speeds with 17 passengers on board.
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The passenger, clearly distressed by the driver's actions, stated:
"Stupidity plays a big role in our world. There’s no excuse. Apparently, the radio was boring, so let's use our phone to change music. We were going 63mph with 17 occupants on board."
Responding to the unlawful actions of the driver, a FlixBus spokesperson told Plymouth Plus:
“Safety is our highest priority, and we take this incident extremely seriously. FlixBus has a zero-tolerance approach to the illegal use of mobile devices while driving, and any breach of this will be met with swift and decisive action. We have urgently investigated with our operator partner, and the driver has been immediately removed from all duties while a formal investigation takes place.”
Despite the evidence clearly showing the unlawful actions of the driver, Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed that they cannot pursue the matter further as the evidence does not meet the required standards under Operation Snap guidelines.
The Roads Safety Team who reviewed the submission advised that the submission does not meet the evidentially required standard. If you submit evidence to Operation Snap, it must capture the registration plate of the offending vehicle.
As the evidence did not capture a registration plate, the police are unable to take any further action.
This news has understandably shaken trust among regular FlixBus users. The passenger who reported the incident added:
"Security told me 17 cameras are on board and can be accessible. I don't think I'll trust Flix again. National Express it is then from now on."
The incident highlights the critical importance of passenger safety on public transport and reinforces the need for vigilance from transport operators.
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