Ignorance of traffic regulations predominantly prevalent among novice drivers with P plates
In Victoria, Australia, probationary drivers (P1 and P2) are subject to a series of strict rules designed to ensure road safety. One of the most notable restrictions concerns the use of mobile phones while driving.
According to the Victorian Department of Transport guidelines, probationary drivers are prohibited from using any hands-free or hand-held device while driving, including listening to music via USB or Bluetooth. This ban extends to the use of smartwatches, as they can be linked to mobile phones and enable access to functions such as social media, emailing, making or receiving calls, text or video messages.
Elvira Lazar, Manager for Safety and Education at RACV, emphasizes the importance of young drivers understanding the demands of driving. She notes that they can underestimate how much attention and focus driving requires. To mitigate this, RACV encourages probationary drivers to plan their trips ahead, including looking up routes and allowing extra time in case of the need to pull over and check directions. Address information should only be entered while a vehicle is pulled over and parked in a place where it can legally stop without being a hazard.
The repercussions for using a phone while driving for probationary drivers are significant. A fine of $484 and the loss of four demerit points are imposed. Reaching five demerit points as a probationary driver may result in a license suspension.
Distracted driving, of which using a phone is a significant factor, has been found to be a significant contributor to almost 16% of serious crashes resulting in hospital attendance across Australia. In 2018, Victoria saw its lowest road toll since records began, with 213 deaths; however, the toll for 2019 is already up nearly 52% on last year's figures, highlighting the importance of adhering to these rules.
It's important to note that while specific restrictions on using music players and GPS devices for probationary drivers in Victoria are not explicitly stated, it is generally recommended that probationary drivers avoid distractions while driving. The navigation device cannot be a part of, or a functionality of, a mobile phone.
RACV advises probationary drivers to invest in an inbuilt GPS unit or a commercially designed holder that is fixed on the vehicle, to ensure compliance with the rules. Using Maps on a phone is prohibited for both P1 and P2 drivers in Victoria.
The restrictions on phone use for probationary drivers are intentionally strict and have been shown to work in making roads safer. Young drivers are reminded to prioritise safety and focus while behind the wheel. For the most accurate and updated information, it is advisable to consult the Victorian Department of Transport official guidelines or resources.
- Elvira Lazar, from RACV, encourages home-and-garden planning for young drivers, urging them to plan trips in advance, including looking up routes and adding extra time for unexpected stops.
- The ban on phone usage for probationary drivers in Victoria includes listening to music via USB or Bluetooth devices, as well as the use of smartwatches that can link to mobile phones.
- Car-accidents caused by distracted driving, including phone usage, have been found to contribute significantly to about 16% of serious accidents requiring hospitalization across Australia.
- In Victoria, violating the ban on phone use while driving as a probationary driver can lead to a hefty fine of $484 and the loss of four demerit points, with five demerit points potentially leading to a license suspension.
- General-news headlines have shown an upward trend in Victoria's road toll, with the toll for 2019 being almost 52% higher than the lowest road toll in 2018 (213 deaths).
- In the realms of personal-growth and career-development, developing skills in car-maintenance can be crucial for young drivers, ensuring their vehicles are safe and reliable.
- RACV advises probationary drivers to invest in an inbuilt GPS unit or a commercially designed holder for their vehicles, as using Maps on a phone is prohibited for both P1 and P2 drivers in Victoria.
- Education-and-self-development resources suggest that avoiding distractions while driving, such as music players and GPS devices, can play a key role in one's car-maintenance routine and overall safety.
