Vodacom is a caring and responsible corporate citizen and supports the new road traffic regulation outlawing the use of handheld cellphones while driving.
However, Vodacom would like to reassure cellular users that the proper use of walk-and-talk handsfree devices while driving is legal and in full compliance with the new legislation.
"Some media reports have stated that the use of walk-and-talk handsfree devices is illegal in terms of new legislation introduced today," said Joan Joffe, Group Executive - Corporate Affairs of Vodacom.
"This is untrue. Vodacom has scrutinised the legislation and draws the public`s attention to the fact that the Act states a person may drive a vehicle on a public road and use a communication device `that is specially adapted or designed to be affixed to the person of the driver as headgear and is so used."
"The Act thus clearly allows for the use of a walk-and-talk handsfree devices, provided that the driver of the vehicle does not hold the actual phone in one or both hands or with any other part of his body.
"Many people are not in a position to have car-kits installed in their vehicles and consequently the use of walk-and-talk handsfree devices is an excellent option for them," said Ms Joffe.
"The safety of our customers, other road users and pedestrians is paramount and we therefore support the road traffic regulation which makes the use of hands-free mobile phone devices compulsory while driving. Millions of South Africans utilise the unique benefits of safety, value and convenience provided by mobile telecommunications. However, driving carefully and responsibly must be the first priority for motorists," says Ms Joffe.
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