The new law requires all drivers to have hands free devices for all cell phone conversations and Transport Minister Jack Warner is warning that “the law will now be enforced with full force.”
His ministry has appointed and trained 85 new traffic wardens who would work in conjunction with the police traffic branch.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has placed media ads warning motorists that the use of mobile phones while driving is contrary to Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic (Mobile Devices) regulations 2010.
The offence carries a fixed penalty of $1,000 through a traffic ticket. Anyone who fails to pay within the stipulated time risks conviction by a magistrate with a fine of $1,500 or imprisonment for three months.
Warner told reporters Thursday the Government may review the penalties. “If it means we have to raise the fines further to make the law more drastic then that is what we would do,” he said.
The government notice advises that all drivers should equip themselves with reliable hands free devices.
“In the absence of such equipment, a driver who wishes to use his mobile phone, shall do so by parking his vehicle safely off the roadway, not impeding the flow of traffic and whilst observing the necessary traffic restrictions,” the notice states.
The only exemptions are for the driver of an ambulance, Fire Service vehicle or Police Service vehicle.
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