A UK motor insurance firm has called for the ban of the use of hands-free mobile phones by teenager drivers while driving.

It argued that a number of studies have found that the use of mobile phone while driving and drinking alcohol are of similar risk.

Against this backdrop the insurer advised that the current law relating to driving and mobile phone use should be amended to include a ban on using hands-free phones for drivers aged under 20 in the country.

In a separate development a van allegedly driven by a drunken driver has crashed into the front of a home.

Although the building was seriously damaged, all seven occupants at the time of the accident escaped unhurt.

A report quoting an eyewitness said the driver of the van admitted not having license or van insurance, but denied being under the influence of alcohol.

An eyewitness, however, countered his claim, saying that he appeared completely drunk and was eventually apprehended by police.