Using a mobile phone while driving could cost you dearly if you don’t abide by the law that came into force on November 1, 2012.
Streeterlaw wants to remind all drivers of what police will be looking out for when mobile phones are being used in vehicles.
A driver can only make or receive a call on a mobile phone if the phone is secured in a fixed mount or if the driver is not touching the phone in any way.
A driver is not allowed to pick up the phone to use it while stopped in traffic but is allowed to pass the phone to a passenger.
An iPod or similarly functioning handset can only be used in the same manner.
You are not allowed to SMS, video message, online chat, email or read previews of messages.
It is only when a vehicle is parked that the driver is allowed to handle a phone to make calls or to send messages/emails.
A phone’s GPS function can only be used if the phone is installed in a fixed mount, which is located so as not to distract or obscure the driver’s view.
Learner drivers and provisional drivers are not permitted to use a mobile phone at all while driving.
In 2012, the penalty for using a phone contrary to the above laws is three demerit points and a fine of $298. In a school zone, the penalty is four points and $397.
