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Motorists in Queensland who put their mobile phones on their laps or hands will face huge fines in a major crackdown.
If a Queensland driver is caught by a camera behind the steering wheel using a mobile phone or not wearing a seat belt, he will face a fine of A$1,000 and 4 demerit points.
As part of the Queensland Government’s A$1.69 billion road safety plan, roadside cameras will be permanently deployed on roads across the state later this month.
These cameras were tested last year and will become permanent fixtures from July 26 to capture drivers using their equipment while driving.
New rules are also being introduced, prohibiting drivers from putting their mobile phones on any part of their body, including their knees.
No matter whether the device is turned on or not, drivers are not allowed to hold the mobile phone in their hands.
Drivers will also be prohibited from handing mobile phones to passengers.
Transport and Major Roads Minister Mark Bailey stated that drivers will have a three-month grace period, but from November 1st, any driver caught by cameras will be fined A$1,033 and 4 points.
“As of 2021, there have been 136 deaths on Queensland’s highways, 12 more than the same period last year,” Mr Bailey said on Thursday.
“These deaths…have a devastating impact on communities across the state.”
When the vehicle is stationary, you can continue to use your mobile phone to pay for goods and services, including when driving through.
Open and P2 drivers can continue to use their mobile phones while answering calls or accessing navigation services hands-free.
The camera will also be able to detect that the driver and his front passenger are not wearing a seat belt.
RACQ spokesperson Renee Smith said that refusing to wear a seat belt is an “unacceptable risk”, which is often the difference between life and death.
“Given the shocking number of people killed on our roads so far this year, we hope these new measures will help stop unsafe driving and save lives,” she said.
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