For a lot of Australian drivers driving is second nature. It all feels like a normal part of life: dropping kids off at school, going to work, and running quick errands. But road officials are warning that one common mistake drivers make is getting fines of up to $1,200, which surprises thousands of drivers every year.
What makes the problem worse is that a lot of drivers don’t know they’ve done anything wrong until they get the ticket. In some cases, demerit points are added to the fine, which could put your license at risk.
Here’s what the mistake is, why enforcement has gone up, and what drivers need to know to avoid expensive problems ahead.
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The Most Common Mistake That Leads to Big Fines
Using a cell phone while driving, even for a short time, is the most common reason for fines of up to $1,200. This includes things that a lot of drivers wrongly think are okay to do.
Some examples are:
- Holding or touching a phone while at a stoplight
- Picking up the phone to see if there are any new messages
- Using a phone that isn’t properly mounted
- While driving, scrolling, texting, or picking music
- Holding a phone while stopped in traffic
If a phone doesn’t meet strict legal requirements, even a brief contact with it can lead to a fine and penalties.
Why Fines Have Gone Up So Much
Road safety officials say that harsher punishments are needed because of the serious risks of driving while distracted. Using a cell phone while driving is still one of the main causes of accidents on the road, especially in cities.
Changes to enforcement that have happened recently include:
- More widespread use of cameras that can see cell phones
- More severe punishments for repeat offenses
- More demerit points in some states
- More attention to distracted driving during campaigns to make roads safer
Officials say that harsher punishments are needed to change how drivers act and cut down on injuries and deaths.
A lot of drivers think they will only get a ticket if the police see them. Automated detection cameras are now a big part of the process.
These cameras can see:
- Drivers holding their phones in their laps
- Devices held up to eye level for a short time
- Use at stop-and-go traffic and intersections
- Things that drivers nearby can’t see
Because detection is done automatically, fines are often sent out days or weeks later, which surprises drivers when they get the notice.
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What Australian drivers have to say
Michael, a delivery driver in Sydney, said he got a ticket for briefly touching his phone while stopped at a red light.
He said, “I thought it was okay to be stopped.” “The fine was more than $1,000.” I couldn’t believe it.
A commuter in Adelaide said that one mistake almost cost her her license.
She said, “I didn’t know how strict the rules were.” “It cost a lot to learn.”
As enforcement grows, stories like these are becoming more common across the country.
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What the Law Really Says
Even though rules are a little different in each state, most places only let you use your phone if
- The phone is safely attached to an approved mount.
- The driver doesn’t touch the phone.
- Voice control is used when it is allowed.
- The device isn’t blocking your view.
Learner and provisional drivers may not even be able to use their phones hands-free, as they often have to follow strict driving rules.
Other Punishments Besides the Fine
The money penalty is only one part of the risk. Also, many crimes come with:
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- Important points of demerit
- If certain levels are reached, the license will be suspended.
- More expensive insurance premiums
- Professional drivers losing their jobs
People who break the law more than once often get harsher punishments over time.
Why the Rules Are Necessary, According to the Authorities
Government officials say distracted driving is comparable to drink-driving in terms of risk. Your reaction time slows down, your awareness of what’s going on around you goes down, and the severity of accidents goes up.
A spokesperson for road safety said the goal is not to make money but to keep people safe.
“The goal of these laws is to save lives,” the spokesperson said. “One look at a phone can have terrible effects quickly.”
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Drivers should do the following to stay safe and avoid fines:
- Before you drive, set up your navigation and music.
- If you need to, use approved mounts.
- Allow voice controls where they are legal
- Don’t touch your phone at all while driving.
- If you have to use your phone, pull over safely.
Little things can keep you from getting big fines easily.
Questions and Answers
1. Is it okay to touch my phone at stoplights?
No, being stopped does not make it legal.
2. Are cameras that can see phones accurate?
Yes, they are made to get clear proof.
3. Is it against the law to hold the phone for GPS?
Yes, but only if it is mounted correctly.
4. Are passengers allowed to use their phones?
Yes, there are no limits on passengers.
