Using mobile phones while driving to be banned from July 1

Motorists are reminded that a new law to prohibit drivers from using hand-held mobile phones while vehicles are in motion will take effect from July 1 to enhance road safety.

With the introduction of the new law, a driver will be prohibited from using his hand-held mobile phone in the following manners when his motor vehicle is in motion:

	holding the mobile phone by his hand;
	holding the mobile phone between his head and shoulder; or
	holding any accessory to the mobile phone by his hand.

The new law will apply no matter the driver is communicating or not.

A government spokesman said that the use of other similar hand-held telecommunications equipment such as radiophones by drivers while vehicles are in motion will also be banned from July 1, 2001.

"Using a mobile phone while driving distracts drivers and affects their driving performance, in particular their reaction time in emergency or unexpected situation," said the spokesman.

"Drivers are urged not to talk over the phone while driving. If they really need to make a call or answer the phone, they should stop at a safe place or ask a passenger to do that for them.

"If there is a real need to use the mobile phone during driving, motorists are advised to install hands-free kits in their vehicles."

A breach of the new law can lead to a maximum fine of $2,000.

Copies of a leaflet on the new law will be obtainable mid next week from District Offices and Licensing Offices of the Transport Department.

End/Friday, June 23, 2000

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