subject: Driving And Mobile Phones; Whats Safe? [print this page] As the years go by and the popularity of mobile phones increases, people try to drive and use the device at the same time. Unfortunately, the two rarely are a successful combination and as a result, accidents relating to mobile phone use while driving have increased.
Many drivers do genuinely believe that they are far more capable than the "average Joe" at driving, but clearly, this is not a test of skill for driving a car, it is a matter of the focus that is required while driving that is the problem. When you are driving along in your car, there are numerous things to be aware of "" other cars and drivers, pedestrians, stray animals, stop signs, lights, who have right of way... the list, could go on. When you add into the mix a distraction that requires you to take your hands off the wheel and concentrate on something else altogether, it really is a recipe for disaster.
New laws in many states of Australia now enforces that it is in fact illegal to use a phone while driving except for making or receiving a call or to use the device for its audio/music capabilities. Further to that, the device must be attached to an approved hands-free device "" but if you cannot control your vehicle because you are talking on a hands-free mobile phone you are guilty of an offence (Road Traffic Authority, NSW*). Now if you think that is quite restrictive in terms of being able to use your phone... it is. These new laws prevent distraction when driving and any chance of taking your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road when talking on the phone.
The only reason these laws have been implemented is to keep the roads safe for drivers, their passengers, cyclists, motor bike riders and pedestrians. Even when using your phone and abiding by the new laws, there are some added precautions that should be taken to ensure everyone stays as safe as possible:
" Heavy traffic, emotional calls or bad weather don"t mix with mobile phones, regardless of if they are on the approved holders
" Let a call go to voice mail if you are in heavy traffic
" Sending SMS, writing things down while on a call or checking contact numbers in your phone is dangerous and against the law
" In emergencies, pull your car over, turn on your hazard lights and then call for help
If you own a car, the most important thing you can do is buy the appropriate comprehensive car insurance to be covered if you are ever involved in an accident. In many cases it will most likely cover medical bills, repairs to the vehicles involved in the accident and any fees involved with the accident.
