And it’s costing them 5 demerit points!
P-plate drivers all over Australia are getting caught breaking road rules they might not even know exist.
According to new research from Queensland University of Technology’s Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety, there is a major law that many P-platers aren’t aware of despite being in place for over 10 years.
While most young drivers are aware of their speed and alcohol restrictions, many are clueless when it comes to rules regarding the use of mobile phones while driving.
On a full license, a driver is able to use their device if it is hands free and secured in a mounted fixture, or used through the vehicles Bluetooth.
Probationary drivers, however, are not allowed to use their phones for any function whilst driving – including GPS, playing music, or making phone calls.
This rule applies to P1 drivers in all states except WA and TAS, and to P2 drivers in all states except WA, TAS and QLD.
Verity Truelove, a researcher from the Queensland University of Technology, stated that most of the P-platers interviewed were unaware of the law.
“The P1 license phone restrictions were widely unknown and the least complied with, particularly regarding using the phone for GPS applications and the use of Bluetooth to listen to music.
“The drivers I spoke to were also unaware of the penalties involved, with several stating they were now much more likely to comply given they’d been made aware of the laws and severity of the punishments.”
In NSW, P1 drivers found to be using their mobile phone will be fined $337 and penalised five demerits points – a penalty that could result in the loss of a P1 license.
SEE ALSO: Gosford Hospital paring fees skyrocket by 458%
SEE ALSO: A massive Christmas market is coming to the Central Coast!
Written by Kate Stevens
Images: Getty
