In Australia, officials have begun cracking down on road safety, implementing a new fine of $224 on drivers using or having screens of any kind within sight of a driver while on the road. This is another step in targeting distractions that have become a major contributing factor to accidents in Australia. This is a country-wide initiative. All states and territories are covered, and local authorities are on the lookout for any device that leads to a loss of attention while driving.
The new regulation concerns not just mobile phones, but any kind of portable computer, including tablets, laptops, and vehicles entertainment systems mounted on the dashboard as long as they are not for controlling the vehicle or navigation.
Why Screens Are Problematic
Studies conducted by the Australian Road Safety Foundation have proved that a driver’s risk of crashing a vehicle doubles when the driver looks away from the road for just two seconds. Attention that is needed for critical tasks while driving, for example identifying brake lights or pedestrians, is redirected when a driver looks at a screen. It is this risk that the current regulation aims to minimize. No display that is not important should be visible or on during the driving period.
Most drivers are still allowed to use their navigation systems but only if the screen is secured in place and set before the vehicle starts moving. Voice activates controls are still allowed as they are even safer than hand held devices and reduces distraction.
THE PENALTIES AND ENFORCEMENT
The standard fine for the broken rule is $224 with possible demerit points and varies with the jurisdiction. Other states impose excessive fines for repeat offenders, impounding the offenders vehicles, and even forcing the offenders to appear in court. There is a dramatic shift in enforcement with the use of high resolution camera systems and unmarked police vehicles. These measures and the enforcement are designed to improve compliance and drivers attention to the road and the lack of distraction driving.
Below is a brief summary of how the law is applied nationwide:
| Offence Type | Penalty (AUD) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Using or viewing visible screen | $224 | 3 to 5 points* |
WHAT DRIVERS CAN AND CANNOT DO
Using the built in functions of the car, drivers can operate the screens and climate controls. However, watching video, reading message, and displaying social media page are a distraction and are strictly prohibited while the vehicle is moving. Passengers can use their devices but the screen should not be visible to the drivers at any time.
To ensure legal compliance, drivers must keep their phones secured below the dashboard line or utilize car mounts built for the purpose of navigation. Additionally, drivers should pre-set destinations to minimize the risk of touching the screen during a trip.
Broader Impact on Australian Roads
The new policy to impose fines of $224 for violations reflects the efforts of Australian lawmakers to curb the risks to safety posed by cell phones. New digital distractions while driving are as risky as driving under the influence. Some studies suggest taking phones out of the equation while driving can reduce road fatalities by as much as 15%. As cars gain more and more technology and digital implements, keeping a car safe to drive is a legislative requirement.
The intended effect of the new legislation is to promote safe driving, not to punish the drivers. Safe driving legislation promote road safety for the benefit of the drivers as well as the public.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I use my phone for GPS while driving?
Yes, provided it is secured, and it is in a hands-free mode before the vehicle is in motion.
Q2. What if I’m stopped at traffic lights?
The screen use and device abuse while red lights is in place and can incur fines as well.
Q3. Do built-in car infotainment systems count?
No. As long as systems are used for vehicle functions or for navigation without becoming a distraction while driving.
