Cops warn in-car entertainment is a distraction, even if mounted
PETALING JAYA: For some motorists, a car is no longer just a means of transport but a cinema on wheels, complete with visual content on built-in screens.
But traffic police are warning drivers to save the entertainment for later, saying looking at screens while on the move can take their eyes and attention off the road.
Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director Comm Datuk Seri Muhammed Hasbullah Ali said modern vehicles were equipped with screens serving various purposes, including navigation, vehicle information, reversing or parking cameras, communication and entertainment.
“Whether an LCD screen was factory-fitted or installed later, the key consideration is how the screen is being used, is it distracting the driver or interfering with the safe control of the vehicle?
“A driver’s primary responsibility is to maintain proper control of the vehicle, keep his or her attention on the road and remain closely aware of the surrounding traffic at all times,” he said.
Rule 17A(1) of the Road Traffic Rules 1959 bans the use or attempted use of a mobile phone or other communication equipment while driving without a hands-free device.
Comm Muhammed Hasbullah, however, said watching visual programmes on built-in car screens could involve more than just the provision, with traffic police also considering how the vehicle was being driven and the circumstances.
“If a driver is distracted by a screen and drives without proper care and attention, the case can also be investigated under relevant provisions of the Road Transport Act 1987, including Section 43(1) for careless and inconsiderate driving, depending on the circumstances and evidence.
“The crucial point is hands-free does not mean attention-free. Even if a device is mounted or a screen is built into the vehicle, drivers should not watch entertainment content while driving,” he added.
Comm Muhammed Hasbullah said motorists should not assume that watching entertainment content while driving is acceptable simply because the law did not specifically name a particular gadget, movie platform or type of screen.
“Technology will continue to evolve but the fundamental responsibility of the driver remains the same. Whatever the device, the driver’s attention must remain on the task of driving with the utmost safety.
“Your eyes and attention should be on the road, ensuring your safety and that of other road users,” he said.
Comm Muhammed Hasbullah said using a screen for entertainment is not an offence if it is meant for the front passenger or rear passengers, provided it did not obstruct or distract the driver.
“From an enforcement perspective, we will consider its positioning, manner of use and whether it affects the driver’s vision, attention or control of the vehicle,” he said.
Comm Muhammed Hasbullah said the department would continue to study road safety practices in other countries and consider those suitable for local conditions.
