MPs raise concerns over mounted devices, private-hire drivers as law passed to criminalise holding phones while driving

“This is challenging to enforce practically,” she said.

“More importantly, there should be no need to prove that the driver was operating the device. Unlike other everyday objects, a mobile communication device is ordinarily held to communicate or access information. 

“These are activities which typically require the driver’s visual and cognitive attention and divert their attention away from driving.

“Where the device is handheld, the risk of distraction is further compounded because the driver must hold and support the device, reducing the driver’s ability to maintain proper control of the vehicle.”

The new law makes it clear that it is not an offence if the device is secured in a mount and a driver touches it while driving. 

But drivers who get distracted or compromise control over their vehicle while using a mounted device may still be liable for offences such as careless or dangerous driving.

The law also allows the traffic police to enforce the offence using cameras, as well as photos or videos submitted by members of the public. This will increase the detection of such offences, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said previously.

Besides stricter rules on holding a mobile phone while driving, the law now imposes harsher penalties for dangerous driving causing grievous hurt and lowers the drink-driving limits.