MOTORISTS will have to abide by new road rules next month as the State Government pushes to make roads safer.
One of the major changes taking effect from November 9 involves the use of mobile phones while driving.
It will now be illegal for drivers to hold a mobile phone, whether it is in use or not.
The only way drivers can legally use a phone while driving would be if it was stored in a commercially designed holder attached to the vehicle or if it can be used without touching it.
Texting, video calls and emailing while driving are also prohibited.
VicRoads says drivers are four times more likely to be involved in a crash if they are using a mobile phone and 23 times more likely if texting.
Roads Minister Tim Pallas said the changes were part of the Government's 'arrive alive!' campaign to cut the road toll.
"Our roads are busier than ever before and people are using them differently with the introduction of new technologies, such as navigation devices and multi-purpose mobile phones," he said.
Drivers found ignoring the new rules will face fines and demerit points.
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