The Queensland Government’s campaign to stop people using their phones while driving is getting some help.

And it’s coming from young people worried that teenagers are killing themselves for the sake of a text.

Tianna Balmer reports.

TRANSCRIPT:

Using mobile phones while driving is not only illegal, it’s a major contributor to accidents which can be fatal.

The Queensland Government is working with students in the second Co-Lab Youth Road Safety Challenge.

Teams are targeting young people who make up 35% of fatalities in Queensland.

Last year’s campaign, was a success reaching more than 4.7 million people.

Mark Bailey, Road Safety Minister: “Using a mobile phone while your driving is tantamount to driving drunk and over the limit in terms to the risks to the risks that you pose to yourself and other road users.”

In all, 70 students are taking part in a bid to win one thousand dollars which will help fund their campaign.

April Ryan, Student: “I like being able to put in a different perspective of like, a different point of view being a motorcyclist myself. it is really good to see people taking safety to another level.”

Cody Schaeffer, Student: “It’s good being here today, being able to learn more myself, also learn some stuff to tell everyone else.”

88% of young motorists admit to using their mobile phones while driving. With even more young motorists taking to the roads, this campaign hopes to reduce these figures.

But it’s not just about 16 to 24-year-olds.

Michael Keating, Assistant Commissioner, Queensland Police: “We all have our responsibilities in road safety and no matter who you are, or where you’re driving or what you’re doing, you need to make sure that your not distracted and resist those temptations.”

Tianna Balmer, QUT News.