KEY POINTS:
The rule proposing a ban on drivers using hand-held mobile phones has been released for public consultation, Transport Safety Minister Harry Duynhoven announced today.
The Road User Amendment Rule contains a proposed amendment to ban the use of hand-held phones, Blackberry devices and personal digital assistants while driving.
The Government announced in June it would look at the rule change.
Drivers would still be able to use hands-free devices and two-way radio under the proposed law change.
"Mobile phone technology and the culture around their use has moved on significantly since 2004, when the Government first looked at banning cellphones while driving," Mr Duynhoven said.
"The number of reported crashes involving the use of mobile phones has more than doubled over the last six years, with research showing that using a mobile phone while driving increases the risk of being involved in a crash by up to four times."
Between 2002 and 2007 there were 411 injury crashes and 26 fatal crashes where the use of mobile phones or other telecommunication devices was identified as a contributing factor.
"Mobile phone distraction is part of a much bigger driver distraction issue. In 2006 driver distraction was identified as a contributing factor in 11 per cent of all crashes, with a total social cost of $300 million."
- NZPA
