Prompted by the sharp rise in the number of summons issued for using a mobile phone while driving, changes to the Road Traffic Act were passed into law last year and will kick in from 1st February 2015.
It is important for drivers to note that while only calling or texting when driving was barred previously, the new rule states that it is illegal for drivers to hold any type of mobile device while at the wheel of a vehicle. Heavier penalties have also been introduced for offenders.
Here are some important points to note about the amended Road Traffic Act.
1. Type of mobile devices
Drivers caught using or holding a mobile device while driving can be found guilty of committing an offence. Mobile devices are any type of hand-held equipment, which are designed or capable of being used for telecommunication - including smartphones and tablets.
2. You can be charged as long as you are holding a mobile device while the vehicle is moving
It is no longer just talking or texting that will get you in trouble. The new changes include surfing the web, visiting social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, and downloading material. The law applies to holding a device while driving. While it is not illegal to use a mobile device when the car is stationary, motorists are strongly advised not to handle their device at a red light.
3. The driver is exempted if the device is mounted
The amended law only applies to drivers holding a device. It is not an offence to use the mobile device if it is mounted on a holder.
4. Penalties
First time offenders can be fined up to $1,000 and/or jailed for up to six months. Repeat offenders face up to $2,000 in fines and/or up to 12 months in jail.
5. What about wearables?
Wearable technology such as the Google Glass and smart watches are not covered in the amended law. But the use of such devices could be classified as inconsiderate driving, an offence which carries up to a $1,000 fine and a six-month jail term.
