Driver distraction is one of the ‘fatal five’ issues leading to deaths on Australian roads.
This National Road Safety Week, police across Australia will hold a national Day of Action on Wednesday 18 May targeting drivers who use their handheld devices while driving.
Commander Danny Bacon said, “There’s no excuse for using your phone while you’re driving. Apart from the fact that most cars on the road today have hands-free technology and dash mounts are cheap for those who drive older vehicles without Bluetooth, we still see people who persist in using their handhelds, not concentrating on the roads and on occasion, costing lives or causing serious damage.
“So far this year we have lost 18 lives on Territory roads – that’s twice as high as the same time last year.
“Driving takes 100% concentration, and you certainly should not be texting. It doesn’t take much effort to preset your playlist or to turn your phone to silent before you turn on the ignition.
“You can be five minutes late, but you can’t come back from the dead.”
Beware of the fatal five:
- Speeding
- Fatigue
- Seatbelts
- Drink/drug driving
- Distraction
National Road Safety Week runs 15-22 May.
