ACT Policing has put a call into Canberra’s drivers to tell them not to use mobile phones while driving.
Officer-in-Charge of Traffic Operations, Detective Sergeant Marcus Boorman said use of mobile phones whilst driving or riding was distracting.
“Drivers and riders must have full control of their vehicle and pay attention to road conditions at all times,” Detective Sergeant Boorman said.
“It is an offence for drivers and riders to use a mobile phone whilst driving or riding, this includes when stationary in traffic,” he said.
“If you need to use the phone, pull over and park.”
He said mobile phones could be used for navigational purposes and police suggested they be set to the destination prior to driving.
“In 2017, ACT Policing issued 1,299 Traffic Infringement Notices (TINs) for drivers and riders using mobile phones illegally,” DS Boorman said.
“These TINs incurred a fine of either $447 and three demerit points or $548 and four demerit points.”
He said road safety was is everyone’s responsibility.
“Driver distraction is one of the leading causes for serious injury and death on our roads.
“No message, phone call or social media post is worth that risk,” he said.
DS Boorman noted that many new vehicles were equipped with bluetooth systems which could be paired with a mobile phone, allowing the driver to make a call ‘hands-free’.
