Apparently it’s not only GPS devices distracting drivers on the roads. Around 23 per cent of NSW motorists admit to still taking a call or checking a text while driving, according to new research from insurance firm, Bingle, and Newspoll. Maybe my Melbourne friends are right when they bitch about Sydney drivers?
Who knows — the data only covers NSW – but I’m thinking it’d average out pretty equally nationally. What about you?
Bingle notes that drivers cop a $265 fine and three demerit points for getting caught using phones – more if you’re in a school zone. So it’s not cheap if you’re caught, let alone the safety concern.
And this is interesting: they say that “Those who use their smartphone as a GPS also need to be aware the legislation does not make a distinction for this. If you don’t have a dedicated GPS navigation system, it is best to have a co-pilot use the phone to direct you while you drive.”
Huh, I didn’t know that.
Matt
Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 1:32 PMSo what about the police themselves using mobiles ? How many have been fined ? None of course. Just this morning I looked over to see a Cop car passing me who’s driver was using his Mobile. If only i had a siren I would have made a citizens arrest !
Sicarius123
Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 3:08 PMI think you’ll find that they have loopholes in that they’re trained to use mobiles / on board computers while driving and can’t be booked for it.
wooktree
Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 3:45 PM@Matt, fail comment.
Michael
Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 5:11 PMStill, I’ve seen police drivers stuffing their faces with kebabs and donuts while driving.
Molokov
Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 5:12 PMWhat do they classify as “using” your phone as a GPS?
I will sometimes use it for navigation and glance at it for maps (and also rely on the voice turn-by-turn) but rarely touch it whilst the car is in motion.
Would that still get me fined?
Ron
Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 7:47 PMCan’t help but wonder if its so dangerous how all these people were alive to pay the fine lol..
PS. Hate to be a kiljoy but why is smoking still allowed whilst driving??
Onroad Driving School
Monday, August 22, 2011 at 2:33 PMI totally agree with above facts and in fact, it increasing day to day. I bet if you stop at traffic light, just look around for other driver and you will easily find few talking or texting. Real danger as it takes your sight away from road…