Australian comedians Sam Simmons and Aaron Chen are backing a new initiative aimed at encouraging drivers in Victoria to activate their smartphone’s ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’ function when behind the wheel.

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is behind the new scheme which follows on from its recently launched distracted driving campaign. Promotional videos feature the comedy duo activating the function on their own phones, and having fun creating their own personalised “Do Not Disturb” auto-response messages throughout.

Meg Jacobs, TAC Senior Manager Engagement, said the new initiative encouraged the community to work together to tackle driver distraction.

“So far, 2019 has been a tragic year on our roads and we know that mobile phone distraction is a major factor causing death and serious injuries,” said Jacobs. “Just a two second glance at your phone in a 50 kilometre zone could mean travelling blind for 28 metres.

“Addressing road safety issues requires a comprehensive approach, but we want to show Victorians that there are simple things they can do right now to help make our roads safer.”

A recent TAC survey of 1,742 road users showed a third of license holders aged 18 to 60 years admitted to using their mobile phones illegally while driving.