In Norway, the government is not only going to ban traffic alerts, they are also going to ban non-handheld use of mobile phones behind the wheel. The penalty? 10,000 kroner.
A new bill in Norway could mean a total ban on holding a mobile phone while driving. The proposal has been submitted for consultation by the Ministry of Transport and Communications.
If it is passed, drivers can look forward to a fine of up to 10,450 Norwegian kroner, equivalent to approximately 6,800 Danish kroner, for simply touching their mobile phone. Both the interest organization NAF and the Emergency Police (UP) have opinions on the proposal.
The rules for using mobile phones in cars are already strict. It is forbidden to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. There are also clear rules for using mobile phones mounted in a holder.
The new proposal tightens the grip even further. The ministry believes that a ban on holding a mobile phone will send a clear signal to drivers. It will also make it easier for the police to enforce the rules.
This is reported by Norwegian TV2 .
If the bill is passed, drivers will not be allowed to touch their phones at all while driving. This applies even if they are properly mounted in a holder. It will be illegal to give the phone to a passenger.
It will also be prohibited to pick up the phone from the floor if it falls. Even holding the phone in your hand without actively using it will be prohibited.
Stricter rules for mobile phone use in the car
NAF, the Norwegian Automobile Association, is critical of the proposal. Press officer Ingunn Handagard points out a possible unfairness in the law.
"You can accept a toast from the person next to you, but you can't move your phone from the charging pad in the car to the seat," says Ingunn Handagard. She believes such a ban goes against people's perception of what is reasonable.
NAF supports the goal of reducing the number of accidents caused by inattention. However, the organization warns against focusing on the means.
They believe that the law should regulate the actual use of the mobile phone. It should not prohibit any form of touching.
Handagard explains that a total ban is easier for the police to enforce. However, that does not necessarily mean that it is the best solution for road safety.
A total ban combined with high fines could weaken respect for traffic rules. The risk is a fine of approximately 6,800 Danish kroner for simply touching a mobile phone.
NAF and the police disagree on mobile phone ban
The Emergency Police (UP), on the other hand, supports the proposal for a total ban. Assistant Chief of Police Roar S. Larsen highlights inattention as a significant factor for traffic safety.
– Studies show that illegal use of mobile phones is a direct cause of four percent of fatal accidents, says Roar S. Larsen to Norwegian TV 2.
He points out that the use of mobile phones in cars has changed.
People no longer just use the phone to talk.
"Now people are typing, scrolling, searching and surfing on their phones. It's dangerous," says Larsen.
He believes the new bill will make the rules easier to understand for road users. Increased compliance with the rules will lead to increased road safety.
The bill means that it will only be permitted to operate the phone via a fixed holder. The operation must take place before the intersection starts, and there are clear restrictions.
It is planned to allow only a few key presses or touches while driving. This could be a press to activate voice control or find the last number called.
The proposal also includes a possible ban on displaying entertainment and communication apps, including Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, even when the phone is mounted.
At Boosted.dk you can read a lot more about traffic rules and new technology in cars. We keep you updated on developments in both legislation and car equipment, such as the latest infotainment systems, where car brands are now returning to the use of physical buttons.
