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7 April 2009
078/2009
Parents admit to driving while using handheld mobiles
Fifteen percent of Australian parents have admitted to using a handheld mobile phone while
driving with their kids in the car according to new research released by Telstra today.
These finding come as many of families get ready to hit the road for the Easter long weekend.
Research shows that using a mobile phone while driving increases crash risk by at least four
times. Typically ‘run-off-the-road’ crashes and ‘rear end’ crashes are the most common types of
crashes associated with mobile phone usage.
Telstra, Executive Director, Consumer, Ms Jenny Young, said the high number of families
expected on the roads this Easter meant the driving and mobile phone safety reminders were
extremely important at this time of year.
“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.”
The survey of one thousand motorists also found that despite increased penalties only half of
respondents are worried about being fined for driving while using a handheld mobile phone.*
“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.” said, Ms Young.
Telstra also wants to remind people about the importance of storing an ICE (In Case of
Emergency) phone number in their mobile phones.
“These numbers can help emergency services get important information, fast, in case of an
accident,” said Ms Young.
Safe driving tips for using a mobile phone:
Never read or send text messages while driving
To make a call, check MessageBank or read Voice to Text pull over and park safely.
Plan breaks in your trip to stop and make phone calls.
Tell your family and friends not to call when you know you’ll be driving.
Update your ICE (In Case of Emergency) contacts in your mobile phone.
Radio news grabs featuring Olympic Gold Medallist, Eamon Sullivan and Telstra Executive, Jenny
Telephone Hotline: 1300 732 445 - Menu 1, Option 2.
Media Contact
Martin Barr - 0418 101 127
Research conducted by PureProfile from 31 March – 3 April 2009. The research was conducted evenly across all states and
territories in Australia with 1000 respondents participating.
SA Department of Transport, Energy and Infrastructure
NEWS 
