Picture this: You're driving down the road, minding your own business, and your phone buzzes with a notification or call. Without a second thought, you reach over to grab it, only to find yourself face-to-face with a mobile phone detection camera.

One Australian driver learned the hard way that driving while using a mobile phone is dangerous and illegal–it also comes with a hefty fine.

After receiving a fine for using his phone while driving, the driver took to social media to share a picture of himself behind the wheel, hoping for a way out of the infringement.

The catch? He claims that his phone was in a cradle mounted to the car, and he was using it for directions with Google Maps.

'Does anyone with experience know if I have grounds for an appeal? Do you think there's a possibility of this outcome being overturned?' he asked.

The man claimed his phone was in a cradle and he was using Google Maps for directions. Credit: Facebook.

It's a classic case of 'he said, they said'. On the one hand, the driver insists that he was using his phone for navigation purposes and had it mounted in a cradle. On the other hand, the photo evidence seems to indicate that he was holding the device in his hand while driving, which is a clear violation of the law.

The online debate raged on as to whether the driver has a legitimate case for an appeal or not. Some argued that it's permissible to touch a phone in a cradle for certain functions, while others say that the evidence clearly shows he was holding the device.

One user argued in the comments, 'The fine was for using a mobile device while driving, and that's exactly what you're doing. They will just tell you to set your maps before leaving - good luck even getting a response if that's your best argument.'

'Cradle or not, your hand is clearly seen gripping the phone. I think this will be a tough one to get out of,' another said, and dozens more agreed.

​

Despite the majority of commenters suggesting that the driver's chances of getting out of the fine were slim, there were still some who thought he had a chance to contest the charge.

One commenter suggested that the driver could take the case to court and explain that he was only 'stabilising his hand' while using the phone for navigation or other functions. Others urged him to fight the charge and not give up without a fight.

It's true that drivers have the right to contest fines or charges that they believe are unfair or unjust. However, in this case, it remains to be seen whether the driver's argument that he was using the phone for navigation purposes will hold up.

In Australia, the penalties for using a mobile phone while driving vary slightly between states and territories, but generally, it is considered a serious offence. Here is an overview:

• New South Wales: A fine of $362 and five demerit points
• Victoria: A fine of $545 and four demerit points
• Queensland: A fine of $1,078 and four demerit points
• South Australia: A fine of $554 and three demerit points
• Western Australia: A fine of $500 and three demerit points
• Tasmania: A fine of $344 and three demerit points
• Australian Capital Territory: A fine of $498 and three demerit points
• Northern Territory: A fine of $500 and three demerit points

It's worth noting that in some states, such as New South Wales, the penalties can increase if the driver is caught using their phone in a school zone. Additionally, if the offence results in a traffic accident, the penalties can be more severe.

It's important to always follow the laws and regulations surrounding mobile phone use while driving to avoid these penalties and, most importantly, to keep yourself and other road users safe.

Key Takeaways

• An Australian driver received a hefty fine for using his phone while driving, even though it was in a cradle.
• A debate erupted on social media about whether it was legal to touch a phone in a cradle for navigation purposes.
• It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in Australia, and it is important to use an appropriate cradle to avoid fines and ensure safety on the road.

Distracted driving is one of the most significant hazards on the road today, and using a mobile phone while behind the wheel is a major contributor to this danger. While it may be tempting to reach for your phone to check directions or send a quick message, doing so can have serious consequences.

To ensure that you stay on the right side of the law and keep yourself and others safe while driving, it's essential to use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone. This will allow you to use the navigation or other functions safely and without risking a hefty fine.

Physically holding a mobile phone while driving not only puts you at risk of getting caught by police, but it also increases the risk of causing an accident. It's simply not worth taking the risk.

Always use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone, and avoid physically holding it while driving. Credit: Unsplash/Dan Gold.

So, to all drivers out there, heed this warning and keep your eyes on the road. Always use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone, and avoid physically holding it while driving. By doing so, you can help make the roads a safer place for everyone!

What are your thoughts on this story, members? Can the man really appeal the fine and get off scot-free, or will he have to pay the price for his actions? Let us know in the comments!

 

[Staffordshire Whippet]

Speshul.

 

[Lesleymorris58]

Picture this: You're driving down the road, minding your own business, and your phone buzzes with a notification or call. Without a second thought, you reach over to grab it, only to find yourself face-to-face with a mobile phone detection camera.

One Australian driver learned the hard way that driving while using a mobile phone is dangerous and illegal–it also comes with a hefty fine.

After receiving a fine for using his phone while driving, the driver took to social media to share a picture of himself behind the wheel, hoping for a way out of the infringement.

The catch? He claims that his phone was in a cradle mounted to the car, and he was using it for directions with Google Maps.

'Does anyone with experience know if I have grounds for an appeal? Do you think there's a possibility of this outcome being overturned?' he asked.

View attachment 16508

The man claimed his phone was in a cradle and he was using Google Maps for directions. Credit: Facebook.

It's a classic case of 'he said, they said'. On the one hand, the driver insists that he was using his phone for navigation purposes and had it mounted in a cradle. On the other hand, the photo evidence seems to indicate that he was holding the device in his hand while driving, which is a clear violation of the law.

The online debate raged on as to whether the driver has a legitimate case for an appeal or not. Some argued that it's permissible to touch a phone in a cradle for certain functions, while others say that the evidence clearly shows he was holding the device.

One user argued in the comments, 'The fine was for using a mobile device while driving, and that's exactly what you're doing. They will just tell you to set your maps before leaving - good luck even getting a response if that's your best argument.'

'Cradle or not, your hand is clearly seen gripping the phone. I think this will be a tough one to get out of,' another said, and dozens more agreed.

View attachment 16518​

Despite the majority of commenters suggesting that the driver's chances of getting out of the fine were slim, there were still some who thought he had a chance to contest the charge.

One commenter suggested that the driver could take the case to court and explain that he was only 'stabilising his hand' while using the phone for navigation or other functions. Others urged him to fight the charge and not give up without a fight.

It's true that drivers have the right to contest fines or charges that they believe are unfair or unjust. However, in this case, it remains to be seen whether the driver's argument that he was using the phone for navigation purposes will hold up.

In Australia, the penalties for using a mobile phone while driving vary slightly between states and territories, but generally, it is considered a serious offence. Here is an overview:

• New South Wales: A fine of $362 and five demerit points
• Victoria: A fine of $545 and four demerit points
• Queensland: A fine of $1,078 and four demerit points
• South Australia: A fine of $554 and three demerit points
• Western Australia: A fine of $500 and three demerit points
• Tasmania: A fine of $344 and three demerit points
• Australian Capital Territory: A fine of $498 and three demerit points
• Northern Territory: A fine of $500 and three demerit points

It's worth noting that in some states, such as New South Wales, the penalties can increase if the driver is caught using their phone in a school zone. Additionally, if the offence results in a traffic accident, the penalties can be more severe.

It's important to always follow the laws and regulations surrounding mobile phone use while driving to avoid these penalties and, most importantly, to keep yourself and other road users safe.

Key Takeaways

• An Australian driver received a hefty fine for using his phone while driving, even though it was in a cradle.
• A debate erupted on social media about whether it was legal to touch a phone in a cradle for navigation purposes.
• It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in Australia, and it is important to use an appropriate cradle to avoid fines and ensure safety on the road.

Distracted driving is one of the most significant hazards on the road today, and using a mobile phone while behind the wheel is a major contributor to this danger. While it may be tempting to reach for your phone to check directions or send a quick message, doing so can have serious consequences.

To ensure that you stay on the right side of the law and keep yourself and others safe while driving, it's essential to use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone. This will allow you to use the navigation or other functions safely and without risking a hefty fine.

Physically holding a mobile phone while driving not only puts you at risk of getting caught by police, but it also increases the risk of causing an accident. It's simply not worth taking the risk.

View attachment 16509

Always use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone, and avoid physically holding it while driving. Credit: Unsplash/Dan Gold.

So, to all drivers out there, heed this warning and keep your eyes on the road. Always use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone, and avoid physically holding it while driving. By doing so, you can help make the roads a safer place for everyone!

What are your thoughts on this story, members? Can the man really appeal the fine and get off scot-free, or will he have to pay the price for his actions? Let us know in the comments!

How many times do people have to be told, looks to me like he’s holding his phone, if he was using his GPS there’d be no reason to touch his phone, hands free, if it doesn’t go through your stereo then you should have a holder up on your windscreen

 

[Greatgwr]

The Law is clear ANY PHYSICAL CONTACT with the phone is an offense couldn't be clearer. If you need to touch your phone pull over safely and do it, its a lot cheaper

 

[Strawb]

Picture this: You're driving down the road, minding your own business, and your phone buzzes with a notification or call. Without a second thought, you reach over to grab it, only to find yourself face-to-face with a mobile phone detection camera.

One Australian driver learned the hard way that driving while using a mobile phone is dangerous and illegal–it also comes with a hefty fine.

After receiving a fine for using his phone while driving, the driver took to social media to share a picture of himself behind the wheel, hoping for a way out of the infringement.

The catch? He claims that his phone was in a cradle mounted to the car, and he was using it for directions with Google Maps.

'Does anyone with experience know if I have grounds for an appeal? Do you think there's a possibility of this outcome being overturned?' he asked.

View attachment 16508

The man claimed his phone was in a cradle and he was using Google Maps for directions. Credit: Facebook.

It's a classic case of 'he said, they said'. On the one hand, the driver insists that he was using his phone for navigation purposes and had it mounted in a cradle. On the other hand, the photo evidence seems to indicate that he was holding the device in his hand while driving, which is a clear violation of the law.

The online debate raged on as to whether the driver has a legitimate case for an appeal or not. Some argued that it's permissible to touch a phone in a cradle for certain functions, while others say that the evidence clearly shows he was holding the device.

One user argued in the comments, 'The fine was for using a mobile device while driving, and that's exactly what you're doing. They will just tell you to set your maps before leaving - good luck even getting a response if that's your best argument.'

'Cradle or not, your hand is clearly seen gripping the phone. I think this will be a tough one to get out of,' another said, and dozens more agreed.

View attachment 16518​

Despite the majority of commenters suggesting that the driver's chances of getting out of the fine were slim, there were still some who thought he had a chance to contest the charge.

One commenter suggested that the driver could take the case to court and explain that he was only 'stabilising his hand' while using the phone for navigation or other functions. Others urged him to fight the charge and not give up without a fight.

It's true that drivers have the right to contest fines or charges that they believe are unfair or unjust. However, in this case, it remains to be seen whether the driver's argument that he was using the phone for navigation purposes will hold up.

In Australia, the penalties for using a mobile phone while driving vary slightly between states and territories, but generally, it is considered a serious offence. Here is an overview:

• New South Wales: A fine of $362 and five demerit points
• Victoria: A fine of $545 and four demerit points
• Queensland: A fine of $1,078 and four demerit points
• South Australia: A fine of $554 and three demerit points
• Western Australia: A fine of $500 and three demerit points
• Tasmania: A fine of $344 and three demerit points
• Australian Capital Territory: A fine of $498 and three demerit points
• Northern Territory: A fine of $500 and three demerit points

It's worth noting that in some states, such as New South Wales, the penalties can increase if the driver is caught using their phone in a school zone. Additionally, if the offence results in a traffic accident, the penalties can be more severe.

It's important to always follow the laws and regulations surrounding mobile phone use while driving to avoid these penalties and, most importantly, to keep yourself and other road users safe.

Key Takeaways

• An Australian driver received a hefty fine for using his phone while driving, even though it was in a cradle.
• A debate erupted on social media about whether it was legal to touch a phone in a cradle for navigation purposes.
• It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in Australia, and it is important to use an appropriate cradle to avoid fines and ensure safety on the road.

Distracted driving is one of the most significant hazards on the road today, and using a mobile phone while behind the wheel is a major contributor to this danger. While it may be tempting to reach for your phone to check directions or send a quick message, doing so can have serious consequences.

To ensure that you stay on the right side of the law and keep yourself and others safe while driving, it's essential to use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone. This will allow you to use the navigation or other functions safely and without risking a hefty fine.

Physically holding a mobile phone while driving not only puts you at risk of getting caught by police, but it also increases the risk of causing an accident. It's simply not worth taking the risk.

View attachment 16509

Always use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone, and avoid physically holding it while driving. Credit: Unsplash/Dan Gold.

So, to all drivers out there, heed this warning and keep your eyes on the road. Always use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone, and avoid physically holding it while driving. By doing so, you can help make the roads a safer place for everyone!

What are your thoughts on this story, members? Can the man really appeal the fine and get off scot-free, or will he have to pay the price for his actions? Let us know in the comments!

Even if it is only checking maps like he stated, he is still distracted by the use of the phone. Therefore the fine is justified.

 

[Mikeyboy2012]

I see this every time I drive. Head down, texting or whatever, P platers especially. Stop it or get off the road and let the rest of us drive safely.

What absolutely amazes me is that, with hands-free, Bluetooth etc, professional drivers can STILL be seen hold the phone when driving, often with large vehicles and heavy loads. They deserve to lose their licences for endangering other drivers.

 

[Jest]

Picture this: You're driving down the road, minding your own business, and your phone buzzes with a notification or call. Without a second thought, you reach over to grab it, only to find yourself face-to-face with a mobile phone detection camera.

One Australian driver learned the hard way that driving while using a mobile phone is dangerous and illegal–it also comes with a hefty fine.

After receiving a fine for using his phone while driving, the driver took to social media to share a picture of himself behind the wheel, hoping for a way out of the infringement.

The catch? He claims that his phone was in a cradle mounted to the car, and he was using it for directions with Google Maps.

'Does anyone with experience know if I have grounds for an appeal? Do you think there's a possibility of this outcome being overturned?' he asked.

View attachment 16508

The man claimed his phone was in a cradle and he was using Google Maps for directions. Credit: Facebook.

It's a classic case of 'he said, they said'. On the one hand, the driver insists that he was using his phone for navigation purposes and had it mounted in a cradle. On the other hand, the photo evidence seems to indicate that he was holding the device in his hand while driving, which is a clear violation of the law.

The online debate raged on as to whether the driver has a legitimate case for an appeal or not. Some argued that it's permissible to touch a phone in a cradle for certain functions, while others say that the evidence clearly shows he was holding the device.

One user argued in the comments, 'The fine was for using a mobile device while driving, and that's exactly what you're doing. They will just tell you to set your maps before leaving - good luck even getting a response if that's your best argument.'

'Cradle or not, your hand is clearly seen gripping the phone. I think this will be a tough one to get out of,' another said, and dozens more agreed.

View attachment 16518​

Despite the majority of commenters suggesting that the driver's chances of getting out of the fine were slim, there were still some who thought he had a chance to contest the charge.

One commenter suggested that the driver could take the case to court and explain that he was only 'stabilising his hand' while using the phone for navigation or other functions. Others urged him to fight the charge and not give up without a fight.

It's true that drivers have the right to contest fines or charges that they believe are unfair or unjust. However, in this case, it remains to be seen whether the driver's argument that he was using the phone for navigation purposes will hold up.

In Australia, the penalties for using a mobile phone while driving vary slightly between states and territories, but generally, it is considered a serious offence. Here is an overview:

• New South Wales: A fine of $362 and five demerit points
• Victoria: A fine of $545 and four demerit points
• Queensland: A fine of $1,078 and four demerit points
• South Australia: A fine of $554 and three demerit points
• Western Australia: A fine of $500 and three demerit points
• Tasmania: A fine of $344 and three demerit points
• Australian Capital Territory: A fine of $498 and three demerit points
• Northern Territory: A fine of $500 and three demerit points

It's worth noting that in some states, such as New South Wales, the penalties can increase if the driver is caught using their phone in a school zone. Additionally, if the offence results in a traffic accident, the penalties can be more severe.

It's important to always follow the laws and regulations surrounding mobile phone use while driving to avoid these penalties and, most importantly, to keep yourself and other road users safe.

Key Takeaways

• An Australian driver received a hefty fine for using his phone while driving, even though it was in a cradle.
• A debate erupted on social media about whether it was legal to touch a phone in a cradle for navigation purposes.
• It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in Australia, and it is important to use an appropriate cradle to avoid fines and ensure safety on the road.

Distracted driving is one of the most significant hazards on the road today, and using a mobile phone while behind the wheel is a major contributor to this danger. While it may be tempting to reach for your phone to check directions or send a quick message, doing so can have serious consequences.

To ensure that you stay on the right side of the law and keep yourself and others safe while driving, it's essential to use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone. This will allow you to use the navigation or other functions safely and without risking a hefty fine.

Physically holding a mobile phone while driving not only puts you at risk of getting caught by police, but it also increases the risk of causing an accident. It's simply not worth taking the risk.

View attachment 16509

Always use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone, and avoid physically holding it while driving. Credit: Unsplash/Dan Gold.

So, to all drivers out there, heed this warning and keep your eyes on the road. Always use an appropriate cradle for your mobile phone, and avoid physically holding it while driving. By doing so, you can help make the roads a safer place for everyone!

What are your thoughts on this story, members? Can the man really appeal the fine and get off scot-free, or will he have to pay the price for his actions? Let us know in the comments!

if drivers do not know by now that it is a fine if using a mobile, then sorry no sympathy from me. not in this day and age when a hands-free is readily available. another to take heed of it is illegal to drive with any part of the body out of the window. keep your arms inside.

 

[Mina vriesekolk]

Just leave the phone alone

 

[Nana Zorak]

He should have to face the full force of the law in this case as he didn't have it in a cradle to be used correctly!

 

[Cavador2001]

Cradle or no cradle he was still guilty. Please people leave your phone in the glovebox!

 

[Rosscoesmiff]

Cop it on the chin, pay the fine and move on with life.

 

[Gsr]

His hand is on the phone and from what can be seen of his sitting position he appears to be leaning in the direction of the phone, so he is guilty as charged and needs to pay the fine and wake up to himself and obey the rules. If he can’t resist touching, checking his phone put it on silent in the glovebox where he can’t see or hear it. Problem solved.

 

[Zemo]

Ahhh, my favourite gripe of all time: you're driving along with a phone on a lanyard around your neck, not even turned on, and you're pinged with a driving offence. Why? Because it's written in the law that the device is "touching your body" and constitutes "using a mobile device while driving". That's sufficient evidence as far as the law is concerned to lighten your pocket of an easy, goodly sum of dollars with no argument on your part allowed that you weren't using it. Whatever happened to the first point of law that you're considered innocent until proven guilty? Where's the evidence that you were "using a device while driving"?

 

[TaniaMarie]

IIts getting absurd with all this now...

 

[Zemo]

IIts getting absurd with all this now...

All what? The new fines/charges they're inventing to fill their coffers?

 

[Macarj]

All what? The new fines/charges they're inventing to fill their coffers?

It's not a new fine

 

[Zemo]

It's not a new fine

Didn't say it was a newie, it's just another example of the ways they invent to get into our pockets.

 

[Rosscoesmiff]

These fines are designed to stop you from doing the wrong thing. There have been far too many incidents where the drivers have been distracted including FATALITIES. SO, If you want to use your phone, GPS, kids toy etc expect a fine. The world will not explode if you don’t answer a text straight away.

 

[terri]

And is that a pillow next to him? I am not sure what purpose that has. If I need to adjust or check my google maps, I pull over and do it while I am stopped. Only takes a few minutes. I would never do it in freeway traffic, but you shouldn't need to ckeck where you are on the freeway.