Shanghai traffic police used drones to catch a driver holding his phone for ten seconds while operating a vehicle. Despite pleading to withhold photo evidence—citing spousal vehicle ownership and passenger privacy—the violation was fully documented and penalized.

Social Context

Mobile phone use while driving is banned nationwide under Article 90 of the Road Traffic Safety Law, with drone enforcement expanding since 2022 pilot programs in Tier-1 cities. Courts consistently uphold penalties regardless of personal circumstances, reinforcing strict liability principles in road safety adjudication.

Safety Tip

Install hands-free Bluetooth systems and enable ‘Driving Focus’ mode on smartphones; keep devices mounted below eye level to minimize distraction and comply with enforcement thresholds.