Police blitz on drivers using cellphones

A "blitz" on drivers using cellphones while driving will be the focus for Police nationwide in the last week of November - 26th November - 2nd December. It is timed to coincide with the anniversary of the introduction of legislation banning mobile phone use while driving and to remind drivers of the risk associated with distraction while driving.

Superintendent Carey Griffiths, National Manager- Road Policing says that the campaign is timed to remind drivers of need to be aware of the very real risk that distractions represent, especially talking on cellphones.

"But distraction can come in many forms - changing the CD, unrestrained pets, quarrelling children, things rolling round in the car, eating, putting on make-up, to name a few common ones that we come across," he said.

Driving a car is not something to be taken casually. Everyone should approach driving with respect; after all, for most people it is the most dangerous activity they will ever undertake."

Although the legislation allows the use of hands-free mobile phones, Police recommend that drivers minimise the potential for distraction by switching phones off while driving, or pulling over to make or receive calls.

"We are now several years down the track, we don't see any excuses for people still failing to comply with this legislation. We will be taking a very firm approach and Police will be out nationwide doing their best to impress upon drivers how serious we are about this issue."

Police will also be checking to ensure all vehicle occupants are wearing safety belts.

"We know that wearing seat belts continues to save lives but there are still some drivers and their passengers who just don't get it.

So we will also be focusing on making sure that everyone in all vehicles is wearing a safety belt or child restraint and action will be taken against any drivers or their passengers detected who are not wearing seat belts.

"These are two very simple things that we can all do," said Superintendent Griffiths.

"It is not hard or time consuming but can be the difference between life and death if something goes wrong."

"We want every journey to be a safer journey for every road user."

ENDS

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