Mobile detection cameras to start crackdown on delinquent drivers

As we all know, the convenience of mobile phones has become an integral part of our daily lives.

However, for those who handle the steering wheel often, this convenience could soon come with a hefty price tag.


Starting 19 September, South Australian drivers caught using their mobile phones behind the wheel will face steep fines of up to $658.

The introduction of mobile phone detection cameras proved to be a game-changer for traffic management.

Throughout their trial period, approximately 1000 drivers per day were caught using their phones while driving.


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Mobile detection cameras in South Australia will start fining drivers who break road rules on 19 September. Image Credit: Shutterstock/
Sophon Nawit


This prompted traffic lawyers to once again go through the legislation as they look for loopholes that drivers might exploit.

Legal expert Hugh Woods pointed out that with any law, there are exceptions to the rules.

'Of course, the rules become a little bit grey in terms of what interaction with your mobile phone is,' Woods said.


To prevent loopholes, Woods ran down some regulations drivers need to keep in mind.

Drivers can use their phones hands-free if they are in a cradle.

However, this is only acceptable during voice calls. Video calls are not allowed.

While drivers can use headphones, texting, viewing video messages, or checking emails while driving are considered offences.

For those who use their phones for navigation, using GPS is allowed as long as the device is secured in a cradle.

Navigation apps should also be programmed while the vehicle is legally parked.


Lawyers also started examining the camera systems as they use artificial intelligence (AI) to issue fines.

'We're expecting there will be some challenges to the cameras,' Woods mentioned.

The AI system, which automatically issues expiation notices, could make errors that are then compounded by human oversight once South Australia Police (SAPOL) reviews the notices.

This transition period is a crucial time for drivers to adjust their habits and ensure they comply with the new laws.

Adapting to new technology and regulations could be challenging, especially when they come with such significant penalties.

We encourage our members always to prioritise safety and to familiarise themselves with the new road rules.
Key Takeaways

  • Starting next month, South Australian drivers could be fined up to $658 for using mobile phones while driving.
  • Thanks to the state's mobile detection cameras, about 1000 drivers have already been caught daily.
  • To avoid loopholes, several law officers applied regulations that drivers should keep in mind to avoid hefty fines and penalties.
  • South Australia Police (SAPOL) also anticipated several challenges as they use artificial intelligence (AI) to detect lawbreakers and file penalties.
Have you or someone you know been affected by the new mobile phone detection cameras? Do you have tips on how to stay compliant with the latest laws? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
 
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I certainly don't understand why all laws are not the same in all states. It is one country for goodness sakes and different states are always playing catch up. Oh that's a great idea, we should get on board but look at the cost and time it takes to do so. It is beyond ridiculous.
 
It is complete money-making mockery to have different road rules in different states. This is one nation and rules must be national or not at all. The states and territories can look after important issues like car parking, bin collections and trading standards.
 
Neither my husband or I have a mobile phone so won't be fined for this. :p We live in NSW and I read on SDC earlier this year that P plater's couldn't even use their mobile phone as a GPS. So hard luck if traveling by themselves and don't have directions. STUPID. Totally agree that the whole country should have the same road rules.
 
If I’m not using my phone for a map then it stays in my bag until I get where I’m going. If I need the map I let Siri talk to me and if I take a wrong turn I make sure I pull over before checking the directions. I don’t even take blue tooth calls when I’m driving.
 
I certainly don't understand why all laws are not the same in all states. It is one country for goodness sakes and different states are always playing catch up. Oh that's a great idea, we should get on board but look at the cost and time it takes to do so. It is beyond ridiculous.
Think about it if you drive across the USA. No less than 12 states with 12 different sets of laws and rules if you drive from New York to Los Angeles.
 
There are more distractions when driving than mobile phones. Screaming/crying kids in the back seat, a thousand buttons and switches at your fingertips, the pretty little thing with the ultra short skirt, even roadside billboards to name a few.

The most hypocritical billboard I have seen was for Queensland Transport stating "Distracted Drivers Cause Accidents". It was situated about 50 metres off the road, coming into Bundaberg on the Isis Highway.
 
There are more distractions when driving than mobile phones. Screaming/crying kids in the back seat, a thousand buttons and switches at your fingertips, the pretty little thing with the ultra short skirt, even roadside billboards to name a few.

The most hypocritical billboard I have seen was for Queensland Transport stating "Distracted Drivers Cause Accidents". It was situated about 50 metres off the road, coming into Bundaberg on the Isis Highway.
I don't look at pretty little things in short skirts, but give me a hunk in tight jeans, a different story.
 
Australia is FAR too tiny a nation to withstand the wasteful expense of feral ( :cool: ) state and territory levels of government.

While you're sharpening your bitchynails, governance is about people, not square miles.
 
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The phone is called a mobile phone because you can use it while out and about. However, when you get into a vehicle as a driver, you should put your phone on silent mode and inside the glove box. This will stop you from copping a fine.
 
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