An advanced police operation in Victoria employs undercover officers to target and penalize distracted drivers using their mobile phones while driving.
The strategy involves plain-clothes officers watching drivers, alerting uniformed colleagues to intercept those seen using their phones.
“Whether you’re driving or stationary, you can’t touch your phone,” Sergeant Harry Lazarou of Victoria Police said.
“We’re still seeing people watching videos, YouTube and even FaceTiming and it’s still an offence.”
Last year, more than 12,500 infringements were issued by Victoria Police for mobile phone offences, with about seven in every 10 issued to men.
New road safety cameras tell a similar story, with men outnumbering women by more than 10,000.
While no one is immune, men in their 30s have been put on notice for being the most distracted.
Each person caught is slapped with a $611 fine and the loss of four demerit points.
“Please do the right thing. We need to bring the road toll down and it’s a joint effort,” Lazarou said.
