Released 17/01/2024
Canberrans are being urged to make road safety a priority and set themselves up before getting behind the wheel of a car to avoid being distracted by their mobile phone when driving.
Since the introduction of mobile device detection cameras across Canberra in February last year, over 56,000 drivers have been detected using mobile devices while driving, equating to 175 drivers being detected daily.
Following the addition of the final fixed camera on Gungahlin Drive in November last year, the three transportable cameras and two fixed cameras have detected an average of 225 drivers using their mobile devices daily.
With infringements and demerit points for offences detected by the cameras commencing soon, now is the time to ensure you fully understand the ACT’s mobile device road rules.
“Taking your eyes off the road for more than two seconds doubles the risk of a crash, with mobile phones often being the source of that distraction,” said Kirra Cox, Executive Branch Manager, Strategic Policy and Programs.
“While a vehicle is moving, or stationary such as being stopped at traffic lights, the driver cannot use a mobile device. They cannot hold the device or operate any function of the device, including for video calling, texting, emailing, social media, web browsing or photography.
“Drivers cannot have a mobile device resting on, or kept in place by, any part of their body such as their lap or leg, tucked between their leg and the seat, between their shoulder and ear, or an item on their lap.
“The first thing people should do before starting a drive is ensure their device is in a safe spot to avoid any distractions. If you don’t need your device for navigation or audio purposes, then we suggest leaving it in the glovebox or your bag.
“The other allowed option is to place your mobile device in a secured mounting attached to the car such as a mobile phone holder or to connect your device to the car via Bluetooth (such as Apple CarPlay or Android Auto).
“When set up this way all drivers can use the mobile device as a navigation tool through the use of GPS apps, and to play music or listen to audio files. Remember to set up your GPS instructions and music playlists before driving because you cannot touch your device to skip or change songs or change the navigation settings while driving – it is an offence. Learner and provisional licensed drivers are subject to stricter rules and cannot use the vehicle’s voice command functions to change GPS or music settings.
“Provided the mobile device is securely stored in a mounting attached to the car, a fully licensed driver can touch the device to make or receive audio calls. If the device is connected via Bluetooth, they can also use the steering wheel controls, voice command, or in-car display screens to make or receive audio calls.”
Ms Cox said drivers can only use a handheld phone if the vehicle is parked, however using a mobile device legally can still be distracting. Consider the traffic conditions before using your phone.
“I strongly encourage people to make sure their journey is a safe one. Please only use mobile devices legally and do not allow yourself to be distracted by phones while driving.”
For more information, including for specific advice for taxi, rideshare and hire car drivers, visit: https://www.cityservices.act.gov.au/roads-and-paths/road-safety/mobile-distraction
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