DEMERIT: Penalties for driving and using a phone will increase next month.
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New mobile phone fines for drivers
NEW fines are set to apply to Queensland drivers using their phones at the wheel.
As of February 1, using a handheld mobile phone while driving will have increased penalties. Drivers will receive a $1000 fine and 4 demerit points.
This is a dramatic increase from the previous penalties of a $400 fine and 3 demerit points.
Research indicates that using a mobile phone while driving can be as risky as drink driving.
A driver's response time while texting can be the equivalent of a driver having a blood alcohol reading between .07 and .10.
For further information about the changes to the penalties as well as practical tips and advice, visit this website.
