NSW Police have this week confirmed that drivers could be fined with illegal mobile phone use if they’re caught using their phones in drive-thrus.
Drivers caught in contravention of the law could be fined $337, making for a very expensive Macca’s run!
Using your mobile phone while in a drive-thru falls under the category of illegal mobile phone use, which is prohibited by the Road Rules 2014 (NSW).
The law
It is an offence under rule 300 of the Road Rules 2014 to use a mobile phone illegally while driving.
The rule states that the driver of a vehicle must not use a mobile phone while their vehicle is moving or is stationary but not parked unless:
- The phone is being used in an audio function (such as receiving a phone call or playing music) and the phone is secured in a mounting affixed to the vehicle
- The phone is not being held by the driver, and the use of the phone does not require the driver to touch the phone at any time
The law outlines that your vehicle must be out of the line of traffic and parked before a driver is permitted to use their mobile phone in any other way.
Provisional licence holders
A driver who holds a P1 or P2 licence cannot use a mobile phone while driving under any circumstances.
P1 licence holders who commit this offence will be fined. They will also reach their demerit point threshold and receive a licence suspension for three months.
P2 drivers will also be fined, and they will accrue 5 demerit points (out of a maximum of 7).
Penalties
The penalty for illegally using a mobile phone while driving was raised to 5 demerit points in 2018.
This means that drivers who are caught using their phones in double demerits periods will accrue a total of 10 demerit points (out of a maximum of 13).
The demerit points will be accrued in addition to a fine, which will be at least $337.
Illegal mobile phone use
It is illegal to use your mobile phone in the following circumstances:
- While waiting at traffic lights
- While stuck in traffic
- Making/receiving a call on loudspeaker if your phone is in your lap
- Sending a text message, checking emails, taking photos etc
In addition to the circumstances above, it is illegal for P1 or P2 licence holders to use their mobile phones in the following ways while driving:
- Listening to music with your phone secured in a cradle
- Using the GPS function on a mobile
Key Takeaways
- In NSW, using your phone in a drive-thru can result in fines if it distracts from driving safely.
- Rule 300 of the Road Rules 2014 specifies legal mobile phone use while driving, emphasizing hands-free operation.
- P1 and P2 license holders are prohibited from using mobile phones under any circumstances while driving.
- The fine for illegal mobile phone use while driving was increased to 5 demerit points in 2018, with double demerits during specific periods.
Charged with a traffic offence?
Hamilton Janke Lawyers has extensive experience in traffic matters and can advise you of your rights. If you, or a loved one, has been charged with a traffic offence contact Hamilton Janke Lawyers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Written By
James Janke
James Janke is founding partner at Hamilton Janke Lawyers, and has more then decade of experience as a Criminal Defence Lawyer. Admitted to both the Supreme Court of New South Wales and High Court of Australia
