As vehicle touchscreens become increasingly bigger in modern cars, questions are being raised about how they fit within existing distracted driving laws.
On the Sunshine Coast, Highway Patrol officers are providing clarity on when phones and in-car systems can be used legally.
“Drivers may legally touch a phone secured in a hands-free cradle or use built-in vehicle touchscreens, as long as they are not distracted from safe driving,” a Queensland Police Service (QPS) spokesperson said.
Highway Patrol Sunshine Coast district officer in charge Acting Senior Sergeant Keith Preston said distraction was often identified through driver behaviour on the road.
“Drivers accessing touchscreens or mounted phones and missing traffic light changes, missing queued traffic moving ahead of them, or spending excessive time at intersections without taking opportunities to continue their journey can all be indicators of distracted drivers,” he said.
Acting Snr Sgt Preston said there was evidence of some increased misuse of these devices by drivers this year.
“Any complex activities or actions that require drivers to take their eyes and attention away from driving should be done when parked, not while driving or stationary at traffic lights,” he said.
Common offences include drivers watching videos, accessing social media, streaming calls and using entertainment platforms while in traffic or at lights.
“These screens can only be used as a driver’s aid (GPS, reversing camera etc) and not to display movies/video calls etc,” Acting Snr Sgt Preston said.
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A QPS spokesperson said mobile phone use significantly increased crash risk.
“Using a mobile phone while driving is highly distracting and increases your risk of a crash four-fold, even when using a hands-free kit,” the spokesperson said.
Even holding or resting a phone on the body can constitute ‘use’ under legislation.
If detected, drivers face a $1251 fine and four demerit points.
“Drivers should also ensure that mobile phones mounted in a hands-free cradle do not obstruct their view: for example, being mounted on the windscreen,” the spokesperson said.
This National Road Safety Week from May 17-24, Acting Snr Sgt Preston is asking drivers on the Coast to take a pledge to drive so others survive.
“As well as looking out for the ‘Fatal Five’ that contribute to our injury and fatal traffic crashes, we would ask people to have patience while driving, remain focused on their journey and driving safely, and stay aware of our vulnerable road users on the roadways,” he said.
