Using a cellphone while driving on a public road

EMPD officers frequently catch drivers using their cellphones while driving a motor vehicle.

According to EMPD spokesperson Katlego Mphahlele, drivers are therefore pulled over and charged in accordance with the terms of rule 308A(1)(a) of the National Road Traffic Act 1993/1996, which states that cellphones must not be held in the driver’s hand or hands or with another part of the body.

The fine payable for this offence is R500.

According to statistics, using a telephone while operating a car accounts for 25% of collisions.

The following are tips to consider before driving:

• Never text while driving.

• Never pick up the phone while you are driving. Instead, look for a secure parking spot and attend to the call.

• Set up a hands-free mode on your phone.

• Before starting your car, select your playlist.

• Map out your route before you depart.