ROAD ACCIDENTS CAUSED BY DRIVERS USING HANDPHONES (Review of existing penalties)

Dr Yaacob Ibrahim asked the Minister for Home Affairs whether there has been an increasing trend of road accidents caused by drivers who were using their handphones while driving and, if so, whether he will review the existing penalties for such cases.

Assoc. Prof. Ho Peng Kee (for the Minister for Home Affairs): Sir, no accident case has yet been directly attributed to handphone driving. But it certainly poses a serious hazard. Police issued an average of 179 handphone driving summonses each month in 1997. The average went up 23% to 221 in the first four months of this year. Hence, from 18th May 1998, Police have begun seizing handphones when they issue summonses for handphone driving. Traffic Police will apply to the Courts to have these phones confiscated.

Sir, the offence can be compounded with a fine of $170 and nine demerit points. Traffic Police will monitor the handphone driving situation closely. If motorists persist in this dangerous practice, Traffic Police will consider charging such motorists in court. If convicted, they can be fined up to $1,000 and/or up to six months' jail, plus nine demerit points. A repeat offender can be fined up to $2,000 or be jailed up to one year or both.

Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Sir, are there any plans to mount a public education programme to discourage drivers from using handphones while driving?

Assoc. Prof. Ho Peng Kee: Sir, I think this topic has been in the news repeatedly when cases are highlighted. I think all drivers know that Police takes a very serious view of handphone driving. So there is no need for a dedicated campaign.