Smart No Phone
In 2013, the Police of the City of Lugano, faced with the boom in smartphones, carried out a series of targeted checks against infractions related to the use of mobile devices while driving.
Studies on the subject show that using a phone while driving increases the risk of an accident by 4 to 5 times.
The risk remains high even when using a "hands-free" device, as the key factor is not so much the use of the device itself but rather the cognitive effort and concentration required to converse with a person who is not in the car.
In any case, according to Swiss traffic regulations, the use of a phone without a "hands-free" device is prohibited while driving.
Therefore, the use of a hands-free device is a prerequisite for avoiding penalties. However, even the use of such devices has its limits. For example, it is illegal to use both earphones of a headset while driving. Furthermore, even those who use a hands-free device to make calls may be subject to punishment if they cause a traffic accident or endanger others due to the phone call.
In autumn 2013, the Lugano City Police launched a specific prevention and control operation called "SMART NO PHONE."
Throughout October, targeted checks were carried out to promote greater compliance with the rules and increase awareness and attention to traffic, with the aim of encouraging a change in driver behavior and reducing the risk of accidents.
From 7 to 31 October 2013 (25 days), a total of 103 targeted checks were conducted, during which 661 violations were recorded.
Police recommendations
- Use a "hands-free" device (speakerphone, earphones, etc.) that complies with regulations.
- If using earphones, use only one earpiece; never both at the same time.
- Avoid reading or writing messages while driving.
By doing so, you will be safer, more at ease, and contribute to improving road safety.
Where possible, also:
Refrain from making calls, perhaps even by turning off the phone, to improve both road safety and your own well-being. If possible, ignore the call or have the passenger answer/make the call. Use voicemail and, in case of urgency, stop and call back later.
The English version of this page was created with the aid of automatic translation tools and may contain errors and omissions.
The original version is the page in Italian.