Mobile Phone Usage whilst Driving

This is always a current topic within the law; and something that I have been asked about many times; about what the relevant laws and regulations are, in terms of using a mobile phone whilst driving; and exactly what the relevant rules and legislation are; and my opinion on the matter. 

Under regulation 300 of the Road Rules Act (NSW) of 2014, the use of a mobile phone whilst driving is actually permitted, if the phone is secured in a mounting device affixed to the vehicle (shown in the image below). If this is done, then the person is legally allowed to make or receive phone calls (via bluetooth), perform audio functions or even as a GPS. Such that the person must not touch the phone at all; or have it resting on a part of their body during the time they are driving. 

I think that this is a reasonable rule; as if you have the phone in your hand; and not in the mounting device, it can cause immediate distractions, placing not only you at risk, but everyone else in the road. Therefore, I believe that it is vital and very important to follow this rule as it is directly in place to protect the lives of everyone on the road. Obviously, the incorrect usage of mobile phone whilst driving, represents negligence and carelessness, as the driver would be heavily distracted; not exercising the right amount of care or attention which would be reasonably expected whilst driving.

However, the part of the law that I do not agree with, is that if you are on your provisional license (P1 or learners) you are NOT to have your phone on at all whatsoever, whilst driving. I believe that P plate drivers should be treated in the same regard as other drivers on the road; seeing as they share the road with everyone else and should be entitled to the same rulings. This is because, if used correctly, the phone is not touched nor does it play a role in distracting the driver completely off the road, if it is in a mounting device. Until this changes, it is important that everyone on the road follows the rules to prevent the likelihood of mobile phones playing a part in accidents whilst driving.

Reference for Text:

http://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/nsw/consol_reg/rr2014104/s300.html

Reference for Images:

http://i1-news.softpedia-static.com/images/news2/Why-You-Shouldn-039-t-Use-A-Mobile-Phone-While-Driving-2220

http://thumbs.ebaystatic.com/images/g/l48AAOSwEK9Tw0Lr/s-l225.jpg
http://net4surf.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Avoid-Mobile.jpg