Stay Safe Behind the Wheel: Focus on the Road, Not Your Phone

In today’s connected world, FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is doing more than distracting us, it’s putting lives at risk on New Zealand roads. Distraction is now one of the leading causes of serious crashes, right behind speed, alcohol, and fatigue. One of the most dangerous distractions? Your mobile phone.

🚫 Don’t Use a Mobile Phone While Driving

In New Zealand, it is illegal to hold or operate a mobile phone while driving. That includes texting, calling, scrolling, or even just holding the phone to check GPS. And yet, many Kiwis still do it.

According to Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency), driver distraction contributes to around 8% of all fatal crashes. The reality? That text, notification, or Instagram scroll can wait. Taking your eyes off the road, even for just a few seconds, can be enough to cause a serious accident.

📱 Using Your Phone Safely in the Car

• Turn your phone off or on silent before you start driving to remove the temptation.
• Use a hands-free system if you absolutely need to take a call. This is legal for full licence holders only.
• Mount your phone properly if you're using GPS. It must not block your view.
• Pull over and park safely if you need to use your phone. Stopping at lights doesn’t count.

🚦 NZ Rules & Penalties for Using Phones While Driving

• Learner and restricted drivers are not allowed to use phones at all, not even hands-free.
• You can be fined $150 and receive 20 demerit points for using a phone while driving.
• Being stopped at lights or in traffic still counts as driving under NZ law.
• Multiple offences can result in a suspended licence.

👀 Stay Focused & Arrive Safely

We get it, life is busy, and it can feel like everything needs your attention. But when you're driving, the road needs all of it. That call, message or notification can wait. No update is worth your life, or someone else’s.

✅ Quick Recap: How to Avoid Mobile Phone Distractions

• 🚫 Don’t touch your phone while driving.
• 🎧 Use legal hands-free kits if you're fully licensed.
• 📍 Pull over safely to use your phone.
• 🚗 Stay alert and focused, distractions can cost lives.

Stay safe out there, New Zealand.
And remember, when you drive, just drive.

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