Monday, 20 November 2006

Copeland supports driving cell phone ban

United Future MP Gordon Copeland today reaffirmed his party’s support for a ban on handheld cell phones whilst driving a motor vehicle.

He was commenting on recent Transport Ministry figures showing that distractions caused by cell phones resulted in 79 crashes last year, 7 of them fatal.

“These crashes and fatalities could be eliminated by a simply ban on handheld cell phones and other communication devices whilst driving,” said Mr Copeland.

“However, assuming he is quoted correctly, I have a little difference with Transport Safety Minister, Harry Duynhoven, in relation to hands-free devices.

"It appears he wishes to ban those also but, by way of contrast, I see handsfree devices as a workable solution which will enable marketing reps and the like to stay in contact with their clients whilst driving.”

Mr Copeland also expressed his concern at the number of “near misses” resulting from cell phone use whilst driving.

“I have no doubt that the crash figures would be much higher but for the alertness and swift reaction from those drivers who keep both hands on the steering wheel,” said Mr Copeland.

ENDS

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