Mobile phone users told: GET OFF THE ROAD

The dangers of driving while using a mobile phone, especially sending and receiving text messages, would appear to be lost on a lot of motorists.

Late last year, when launching a public awareness campaign on the subject, Minister Rob Hulls stated that text messaging, or SMS (short message sending), technology is a common feature of mobile phones and popular among mobile users, but it is distracting and dangerous while driving.

"People who drive while using a mobile phone are four times more likely to crash and this road safety campaign is to remind people that a moment’s distraction can lead to a lifetime of consequences," he said.

"Marketing by phone companies encourages the use of mobiles in all aspects of our lives, but there is a time and a place for phone use.

"Let’s not kid ourselves, it is impossible to look at the road and either SMS or read a text message at the same time and my message to drivers who text message is: if you’re on the phone, get off the road," said Mr Hulls.

A recent Road Safety Monitor survey commissioned by the TAC found 30 per cent of the drivers interviewed admitted to using a handheld mobile phone while driving in the last month.

Among 18 to 25-year-olds, usage was the highest, with 53 per cent of people admitting to using a handheld mobile phone while driving.

Mr Hulls said 16 million Australians use mobile phones and using a phone while driving affects a driver’s ability to:

· maintain a safe speed and position on the road;

· react quickly to hazards; and

· judge safe gaps in the traffic.

"There are some drivers who think it’s appropriate to use a mobile phone while driving and have one hand on the wheel, the other planted on their ear, and their minds not on the job.

"We have probably all witnessed this scenario and it’s not surprising that according to police, driving with a handheld mobile phone is now the third most common on-the-spot driving offence.