Strict new Victorian road rules now in effect
New drivers forbidden from making phone calls even via hands-free systems like Apple CarPlayA batch of more stringent new road rules revolving around the operation of mobile devices while driving or riding came into effect in Victoria today (March 31), including the outlawing of L- and P-platers making audio calls via Bluetooth or smartphone mirroring tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In addition to not being allowed to make a voice call of any type while operating a vehicle, young Victorian drivers now cannot send, read or listen to text messages via their vehicle’s embedded phone connectivity system, or touch or operate a wearable or unmounted device.
Looking at another person’s device while driving is also forbidden, however, L- and P-platers in Australia’s second most populous state can briefly touch their vehicle’s built-in multimedia system in order to adjust the volume, climate control or sat-nav, or to change songs.
Those using an unmounted device for any of these purposes must be fully parked before touching their device.
Things predictably aren’t so dire for experienced motorists on their full licenses. For instance, an unmounted device can be used/touched to pay at a drive-through, however, most of the rules outlined above carry over regardless of experience or license status.
The differences are primarily in the use of mounted devices and/or a vehicle’s in-built multimedia system – ie: Bluetooth or smartphone mirroring – with fully licensed motorists allowed to use mounted devices for navigation, audio calls and playing audio.
Wearable devices are also permitted to be used for calls and audio playback.
According to the RACV, the new road rules aim to keep road users safe and reflect the significant increase in the number of technologies that can distract a driver, while bringing Victoria into line with road rules in other states.
“In general, drivers or riders who hold a full licence cannot touch an unmounted or wearable device, such as a phone, tablet, laptop, smart watch, or any other device while driving or riding,” RACV policy boss James Williams said.
“You can connect to your vehicle’s Bluetooth, then place the unmounted device out of sight and reach before you start your journey.
“As a general rule, drivers and riders can use mounted devices or inbuilt systems for functions such as music and navigation, provided they are not entering text, scrolling, or viewing images, social media, websites, or videos.
“For wearable devices such as smart watches… you can only use voice controls to initiate, accept or reject audio calls, play or stream audio materials, or adjust volume levels.”
A full rundown on the new restrictions for both novice drivers and full license holders can be found at the RACV website.
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Related: Victoria waives testing and licence fees for L and P platers
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