SA: Drivers admit to mobile phone use with kids aboard

AAP General News (Australia)
04-07-2009
SA: Drivers admit to mobile phone use with kids aboard

ADELAIDE, April 7 AAP - Fifteen per cent of Australian parents have used a handheld
mobile phone while driving with their children in the car, a survey has found.

But only half of those quizzed were worried about being fined for using a handheld
phone, the survey showed.

The survey of 1,000 people from all states and territories was commissioned by Telstra
and has led the telecommunications giant to call on all drivers to take extra care on
the roads over Easter.

"Our message to motorists this Easter is simple and important - make safety your most
important call and don't use a handheld mobile phone instead of concentrating on the road,"

said Telstra spokeswoman Jenny Young.

"You wouldn't read the paper while driving, so why would you drive while talking or
texting on your handheld mobile?

"Not only is it illegal, it's also extremely dangerous."

Telstra also urged motorists to plan their calls during scheduled rest stops and to
tell family and friends not to call them while they are driving.

AAP tjd/jl/de

KEYWORD: HANDHELD

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