Independent Member for Alfred Cove Dr Janet Woollard said recent clarifications regarding the use of mobile phones while driving should enhance the community.s awareness about
what they can and cannot do.

“Hopefully this will reduce driver distractions and improve road safety,” said Dr Woollard.

“Regulation 265 of the Road Traffic Code now spells out what the phrase "use a hand-held mobile phone" means.

“Effective 1 March a person may dial or receive a call:

• Without touching the phone, e.g. using a Bluetooth hands-free car kit; or
• If the phone remains in the fixed mobile phone cradle.”

Dr Woollard said there are many devices in the market that would enable the use of mobile phones without having to hold or handle the phone while driving.  

“These range from simple hands-free speakers to cradles that can be mounted on dashboards to Bluetooth car kits, and can be purchased for as little as $45.”

Dr Woollard said that the use of mobile phones while driving is not without risk.

“Studies have shown that the risk of being involved in an accident increases by up to 4 times with the use of mobile phones while driving,” said Dr Woollard.

“Sending or receiving a text, video message, email or similar communication is not allowed.

“A phone.s GPS functioned cannot be accessed unless the phone is secured in a mounting.”

Dr Woollard said the penalty for not complying with the mobile phone law is 3 demerit points and a fine of $250.

For more information on the changes to the regulations regarding the use of mobile phones while driving visit http://www.ors.wa.gov.au/TOPICSROADSAFETY/Pages/MobilePhones.aspx
or contact my office on 9316 1377.