The ban on making or receiving calls from a cellphone, texting and e-mailing is one of a raft of new road rules under the Land Transport (Road User) Amendment Rule 2009 which came into effect from today.
Those caught breaking the cellphone law face $80 fines and 20 demerit points.
Drivers can still use hands-free devices and two-way radio under the ban. There is an exemption for 111 calls.
Among other key changes, motorcyclists and moped riders have to use headlamps or daytime running lamps during daylight hours in order to increase their visibility to other road users.
The requirement applies to riders of all mopeds or motorcycles made after January 1, 1980.
Drivers who cruise along in bus lanes on the pretext of turning left or accessing a park will also be in trouble.
The new rule will allow drivers to use special vehicle lanes only when they are less than 50m from where they will turn off or park. They must complete the manoeuvre in the minimum length of lane necessary.
Other changes include:
* Drivers must give way to pedestrians who are "obviously waiting" at a pedestrian crossing (the current requirement is to give way to pedestrians on a crossing); and
* Vehicles towing another vehicle with a tow rope, rather than a rigid towing system, will be limited to a maximum speed of 50kmh.
