Strict new laws relating to drivers using phones while driving are now in force – but they won’t apply when drivers are using their phones as a digital wallet at drive-through outlets or carpark boom gates.
Executive Director of Transport for NSW’s Centre for Road Safety, Bernard Carlon said the Government was adapting legislation to keep pace with emerging technologies.
Mr Carlon said drivers would be permitted to use their phone as a digital wallet as long as the vehicle was stationary and off road, in a car park, drive-through or driveway.
“A number of stakeholders have expressed concerns about the road rules preventing drivers from using a mobile phone to make purchases in drive-throughs or at parking stations,” Mr Carlon said.
“We’ve listened to those concerns and we’re responding appropriately to keep pace with the way people interact with technology every day,” he said.
“Drivers may also access their digital licence on a mobile phone while behind the wheel, if asked to present it by a NSW Police officer.”
Mr Carlon said it was important that all drivers knew the rules about mobile phone use and obeyed them, as they could be caught “anywhere, anytime”.
He said the penalty for illegal mobile phone use was $344 ($457 in a school zone) and five demerit points.
