Over the past week, it’s likely you’ve spotted someone using their mobile handset whilst driving.

In fact to be precise, Telstra’s latest ‘Drive Safe, Phone Safe’ survey indicates almost a quarter of Australian motorists admit to making handheld calls while driving.

Not only is this dangerous, but it’s also illegal in every State and Territory across the country.

Given the number of families and other motorists expected on the road this Australia Day weekend, it’s important to remember that even a quick conversation on a handheld mobile phone can have tragic consequences.

If you need to make a call, send a text or check email, stop in a safe place and turn your engine off. Don’t stop where you could be a hazard to other vehicles, pedestrians or yourself.

Plus, if you’re a P–Plate driver we recommend you check-in with your local roads authority as a number of States have banned all use of mobile phones by P-Plate drivers; even if the phone is in a cradle.

For the sake of your family and other motorists, please pay attention to the roads and not your mobile phone – make safety your most important call this long weekend.

Q. Why do you think some motorists continue to break the law by using their phones while driving? How can we get them to take more notice of the potential impact of their actions?

For more information:

• Media Release – Motorists urged to ‘Drive Safe, Phone Safe’ this Australia Day weekend