Motorists, motorcyclists should cease using mobile phones while driving

ALOR STAR: Motorists and motorcyclists should cease using mobile phones while on the road as its usage has been identified as among the major causes of road accidents in the country.
Kedah Education, Transport and Non-Governmental Organisation Committee chairman Datuk Tajul Urus Mat Zain said the level of awareness among motorists and motorcyclists on the dangers of using mobile phones while driving or riding was still low.
"I feel worried looking at such road users using mobile phones, especially motorcyclists. This is not proper as it can endanger other road users, as well.
"If it is so important, they can stop their vehicle (or motorcycle) at a safe area to answer calls or respond to text messages," he said after launching the Road Safety Campaign in conjunction with the Kedah State Level 2018 Chinese New Year celebration.
Tajul Urus noted that another factor which contributed to road accidents was impatience.
"All road users must exercise patience and adhere to traffic laws so that everyone reaches the destination safe and sound," he said.
Meanwhile, Kedah Road Safety Department director Chan Pei Hong said a motorist's focus dropped by about 50% while using the mobile phone on the road. — Bernama