28 Jan 2015
Changes to Road Traffic Act on Mobile Devices and Driving from Feb 1
A recent change in the Road Traffic Act concerning usage of mobile devices will take effect from 01 Feb 2015 onwards. This is after a 20% spike in the past two years for summons relating to mobile device usage.
Previously, using a mobile device (phone or tablet) was considered illegal. However, this meant holding onto a mobile device was fine.
The changes include:
– Using and holding a mobile device (phone or tablet) will result in an offence.
– Using a mobile device does not mean texting or calling, but also surfing the net, visiting social media platforms and downloading material.
– If the mobile device is mounted, it is not an offence when the mobile device is in use.
– First time offenders can be fined up to $1,000 and/or jailed up to 6 months. Repeat offenders can be fined up to $2,000 and/or jailed up to 1 year.
– Usage of Google Glass and smart watches are not covered in the amended act, but will be classified as inconsiderate driving which carries a fine of up to $1,000 and a 6-month jail term.
*Source : The Straits Times