The State Government is considering introducing double demerit points for two or more mobile phone offences committed within one year.
The proposed change has come after Main Roads research revealed 75 per cent of Queensland drivers admit to using mobile phones while driving.
On Wednesday, the government convened a forum of road safety experts to discuss ways to curb driver distraction and improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said 50 motorcyclists, 35 pedestrians and eight cyclists lost their lives on Queensland’s roads last year.
“This vulnerable road user group accounted for 38 per cent of the overall road toll,” Mr Bailey said.
“Distracted driving is also a growing concern, with 27 fatalities, 11 per cent of the 2017 road toll, resulting from driver distraction.
“We are committed to doing all we can to reduce the road toll and feedback from today’s forum will improve the safety of Queensland’s most vulnerable road users.”
Other road safety initiatives the government is considering include:
- A youth road safety innovation challenge to engage with 16–24 year olds on road safety
- Annual Road Safety Weeks with the Queensland Police Service to engage the community in conversations about road safety
- A motorcycle safety education campaign for new and returning riders
- An app for the 100 hour learner logbook
- Reforms to the motorcycle licensing system to ensure novice motorcyclists have the appropriate skills, experience and attitudes to ride safety
