Transport minister investigates ban on using mobile phones in the car

Minister Schultz van Haegen-Maas Geesteranus is examining whether a ban on the direct operation of smartphones in the car is feasible. She is also investigating whether certain functions can be switched off in the car, for example.

According to the Minister of Infrastructure and the Environment, operating the smartphone in the car is a major problem. “You now see motorists who constantly focus their attention on the phone in the holder instead of on the road. So we have to look further. Banning is an option,” she tells the AD. The Traffic Rules and Traffic Signs Regulations already prohibit holding the phone while driving, but the minister is now looking at prohibiting operation, even when the device is in the holder.

She is also investigating technical means to counteract the problems, such as disabling smartphone functions such as instant messaging or taking over the device by the car. The minister discusses the options for negotiating with the telecom sector. “If you want to catch Pokémon, the phone will also shut off if you go too fast,” said Schultz.