People using hand-held cellphones while driving may soon find themselves in legal hot water.
Transport Safety Minister Harry Duynhoven says the government is considering banning the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving. Drivers would still be able to use hands-free devices btu the sue of PDA's and Blackberry's would be included.
The practice has been blamed for a number of road accidents in recent years as distracted motorists lose concentration.
Between 2002 and 2007 there were 411 injury crashes and 26 fatal crashes where the use of cellphones or other telecommunication devices were identified as a contributing factor.
"The number of reported crashes involving the use of mobile phones has more than doubled over the last six years, with research showing that using a mobile phone while driving increases the risk of being involved in a crash by up to four times," says Duynhoven.
A ban would fit with a recent survey of Automobile Association members which shows 76% of respondents want cellphones banned in cars.
It would also bring New Zealand into line with at least 45 countries, including Australia and the UK, where legislation to ban the use of mobile phones while driving is already in force.
The public will be able to consult on the proposed change from August.
|
