When can you use a mobile phone while driving?

Using a hands-free device while driving is permissible because it allows you to keep your hands on the steering wheel and your focus on the road while still being able to communicate. Hands-free devices enable the driver to maintain better control of the vehicle and reduce the risk of distractions compared to using a phone in hand.

The law aims to minimize the dangers associated with distracted driving, emphasizing that maintaining focus on the road is crucial for safety. This option aligns with the legislation in New South Wales, which restricts the use of mobile phones to ensure safer driving conditions for everyone on the road.

In contrast, holding a phone to your ear is classified as using a hand-held device, which is illegal and can lead to serious penalties. Using a phone while stopped at a traffic signal or driving in any area, including residential neighborhoods, also falls under mobile phone use restrictions and can distract the driver, creating hazards. Therefore, utilizing a hands-free device is the exception that balances communication needs with road safety.