Rules For Motorbike Helmet Devices
– You can only use a motorbike helmet device for:
- Information or images related to the safety or operation of the bike
- Playing or streaming audio material (music, podcasts, audio books)
- Navigation
However, you must not:
Touch the device or use voice controls when doing the above.
Use the device for anything else, such as reading text messages, making or taking calls, or watching videos.
All functions need to be set up before you start riding, and you must pull over to change the settings.
Penalties
There are penalties for offences related to distracted driving road rules.
Mobile phone detection cameras
Mobile phone detection cameras are now in Victoria.
These cameras can detect motorcyclists who are touching or holding mobile phones or other devices whilst riding.
Stay safe on the road
The best way to stay safe on the road is to focus on your riding and avoid distractions.
If you need to use your device, pull over to a safe location first.
Road rules for distracted motorcycle Riding & Driving
Keep in mind that changes and amendments can happen at any stage and the information here is in general in nature and may not be current due to changes in legislation.
From 31 March 2023, there are new road rules that regulate how you can use your phone and other devices while driving or riding a motorbike. These rules apply to everyone, but there are stricter rules for learner and probationary drivers and riders.
What devices are covered by the new rules?
The new rules cover a wide range of devices, including:
- Portable devices (unmounted mobile phones, tablets, laptops)
Mounted devices (heads-up displays, tablets, mobile phones, media players etc if securely mounted in or on a vehicle) - Inbuilt devices (information, navigation, and entertainment systems, heads-up displays that are an inbuilt part of the vehicle)
- Wearable devices (smartwatches, smart glasses, wearable heads-up displays)
- Motorbike helmet devices (heads-up displays, communicators, cameras, and inbuilt or secured mobile phones)
What are the rules for all devices?
From 31 March 2023, when driving vehicles or riding motorbikes, you cannot:
- Operate portable devices in any way, including for phone calls and navigation
- Use voice controls to operate any devices
- Enter text, numbers, or symbols
- Scroll (such as on websites, social media, playlists)
- Play videos or games or take video calls
- Display text messages, social media, emails, or photos
- Rest a device on any part of your body, or pass a device to a passenger
Are the stricter rules for learner and probationary drivers and riders?
Learner and probationary drivers and motorcyclists cannot touch any portable devices, even to answer a phone call or use voice control. They must also pull over to make a phone call, even if they use a hands-free device.
Why are these new rules being introduced?
Distracted driving is a major cause of road accidents. The new rules are designed to help keep everyone safe on the road.
How can I stay safe on the road?
The best way to stay safe on the road is to focus on your driving and avoid distractions. If you need to use your phone or another device, pull over to a safe location first.
Here are some additional tips for staying safe on the road:
- Be aware of your surroundings and other road users.
- Obey all road rules and speed limits.
- Avoid driving in poor weather conditions.
- Get your vehicle serviced regularly.
By following these tips, you can help to keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Rules for Using Your Gadgets While Riding Your Motorcycle
Important rules to keep you safe while you’re out on the road with your gadgets. Let’s break them down in a simple and casual way.
For Portable Devices:
Don’t Touch: First and foremost, don’t touch any portable gadgets while you’re riding, whether they’re on or off.
Don’t even glance at someone else’s portable device while they’re using it in the car.
Don’t put your gadget on your lap or anywhere on your body, except in a pocket or a pouch attached to your clothes, like on your belt.
Hands-Free Only: Don’t operate any portable device, not even with voice commands.
Remember, if you need to use your portable gadget while on a motorbike or in a vehicle, you’ve got to park first.
For Mounted Devices and Built-In Systems:
No Scrolling or Typing: Don’t fiddle with or type on mounted or built-in devices.
Voice Control Off-Limits: Don’t use voice commands to control them.
No Watching or Reading: Don’t watch movies, read texts, or browse websites on these devices.
No Social Media or Calls: Avoid social media, video or audio calls, and games.
Exceptions: You can use mounted devices for navigation and audio (like music, podcasts, or GPS), but set them up before you start driving.
For navigation, stick to the audio directions and keep your eyes on the road.
If you need to change a song or enter a new address, pull over and park. No touching the device while driving!
For Wearables:
Hands Off: Don’t touch your wearable device while driving unless it’s accidental contact while wearing it.
Voice Controls Not Allowed: Don’t use voice controls, even for calls.
No Watching Others: Don’t watch someone else using a wearable device in the car.
What’s Allowed with Wearables:
You can play or stream audio from your wearable device if you set it up before driving or if you pull over and park.
If you need to mess with your wearable (like adjusting volume or changing audio), make sure you’re parked first.
Stay safe out there, folks! These rules are here to help you arrive at your destination in one piece. Drive safe and enjoy your gadgets responsibly!
Important: If you want to operate a portable device on a motorbike or in a motor vehicle, you will need to be parked.
