November 28, 2019
The State Government is bringing in the toughest laws in Australia to stop people using their mobile phones while driving.
Under the changes – which begin on February 1 – drivers caught on their devices will be fined $1000 and lose four points.
If drivers are caught a second time within 12 months, double demerit points apply and they could lose their licence.
Transport Minister Mark Bailey said the measures were necessary to get the road safety message through.
“Drivers using their phones illegally behind the wheel will pay a high price, but that penalty falls well short of the costs and trauma our community carries for those killed or injured in crashes caused by inattentive drivers,” he said.
During 2018, 33 people died on Queensland roads because of crashes involving distracted or inattentive drivers or riders.
Over the same period, 1358 people were injured in crashes caused by distracted driving – but road safety experts believe this figure is under-reported.
