Today, the cell phone ban while driving comes into force. Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) congratulates the government for this road safety initiative.
CAN has long been asking for such a ban. "We have made submissions to Government for years on this topic, as it's such a no-brainer. If you want to get the road toll down, then this is one of the really simple initiatives", says CAN technical adviser Andrew Macbeth. Our policy on the matter can be found on our website.
CAN co-chair Axel Wilke points out that the changes to the road rules also include cyclists. The Road User Amendment Rule talks about 'drivers of vehicles' in relation to cell phones, and the relevant definitions include cyclists and bicycles. "As long as your cell phone has a speaker phone facility, it's very easy to build your own hands-free set, as you can see in the attached photo", Mr Wilke says.
==Ends==
For further information, please contact CAN technical advisor Andrew Macbeth on (027) 2929 888 or andrew@can.org.nz
See http://can.org.nz/canpolicy/cell-phone-use-in-vehicles for the CAN policy on cell phone use in vehicles.
Hands-free kit for bicycles
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 Hands-free-kit.JPG | 3.83 MB |
Comments
The PDF version of the
The PDF version of the policy has now been added to the web version at http://can.org.nz/canpolicy/cell-phone-use-in-vehicles.
From what I have read, this
From what I have read, this solution isn't entirely legal either.
The new rules state that:-
- The rider/driver cannot hold or manipulate the phone to make calls. It must be entirely voice controlled, or...
- The mobile phone is securely mounted to the vehicle and the driver manipulates the phone infrequently and briefly
When I cycle, I want my mobile phone to be somewhere where I cannot see nor hear it.
Legal or not?
You say: "The mobile phone is securely mounted to the vehicle and the driver manipulates the phone infrequently and briefly"
That's the same with mounted phone in a car. On most phones, you still have to push a button to answer it.