In the age of ever-advancing technology, it seems Big Brother is not just watching but is also keen on keeping our roads safer. However, one Victorian driver found out the hard way that it's not just about what you do with your hands on the wheel, but also what you do with them off it.



Abbey, a motorist from Melbourne, was slapped with a $395 fine after a mobile detection camera caught her making an impolite gesture. While Abbey believed she was 'targeted' by road authorities for flipping off the camera, the real reason for her fine was something else entirely. It turns out her passenger was wearing their seatbelt incorrectly, a violation that carries a hefty penalty and three demerit points.


The incident, which took place in the Melbourne suburb of Pakenham, has sparked a conversation about the presence of mobile detection cameras and the hefty fines for seemingly minor infractions. Abbey's frustration was palpable as she voiced her opinion to Yahoo News Australia, calling the fine and demerit point loss 'ridiculous.'



But the law is clear, and the penalties for not wearing a seatbelt correctly are significant across Australia. In Victoria, where Abbey was fined, the penalty is $395 and three demerit points. Queensland takes it a step further with a $1161 fine and four demerit points. In NSW, a fine of $387 and three demerit points await those who don't buckle up properly, with the potential for double demerits during certain times of the year.

The introduction of these high-tech cameras, equipped with artificial intelligence and high-definition lenses, has led to a staggering number of detections. Over 52,000 drivers and passengers in Victoria have been caught out since the cameras were installed, averaging around 5,000 offenders per month. These figures are deemed 'shocking' by police officials, highlighting the widespread issue of non-compliance with seatbelt laws.

The Victorian Department of Justice and Community Safety has weighed in on the matter, stating that the cameras do not specifically target individuals for making gestures. Instead, their purpose is to identify offences such as incorrect seatbelt use. Images that likely contain an offence are verified by trained personnel, and government departments must adhere to strict privacy and data security policies.



It's important to note that passengers can also be fined for not wearing a seatbelt if the offence is detected in person by a police officer, such as when a car is pulled over. Abbey, who has decided not to contest the fine, mentioned that she would ask her passenger to 'pay half,' acknowledging the shared responsibility.

As seniors who have seen the evolution of road safety measures over the years, we understand the importance of following the rules to ensure everyone's safety. However, we also know that sometimes, the fines can feel disproportionate to the offence. It's a delicate balance between enforcing the law and maintaining public goodwill.


We'd love to hear your thoughts on this. Have you had any experiences with mobile detection cameras? Do you think the penalties for not wearing a seatbelt correctly are fair? Share your stories and opinions with us in the comments below. Remember, while expressing frustration on the road might feel satisfying in the moment, it could come with unintended consequences. Stay safe and buckle up correctly, dear members, because it's not just about avoiding fines—it's about protecting lives.