New traffic cameras catch over 70,000 drivers making dangerous road mistakes
By
Danielle F.
- Replies 19
The modern age has brought us many conveniences, but with these conveniences come new challenges, especially when it comes to road safety.
As we navigate the roads, it's crucial to stay focused and aware, not just for our safety but also for everyone.
However, many Aussies fell short in this regard, as evidenced by the startling number of drivers caught using their phones while driving.
In an effort to combat the rise in road deaths—which surged by nearly 10 per cent nationally compared to the previous year—South Australia rolled out mobile phone detection cameras.
This $16 million initiative was part of a broader strategy to reduce road injuries and fatalities, many of which were attributed to driver distraction.
During the cameras' two-month trial period, it scanned seven million vehicles.
It caught 71,044 drivers red-handed with their mobile phones.
This figure is a stark reminder of how common—and dangerous—driver distraction could be.
The illegal activities caught on these cameras are both shocking and disheartening.
From a motorist steering with just their pinky finger to another driver with a dog on their lap and a phone in hand, these reckless behaviours are a severe cause for concern.
If these offences were detected outside the trial phase, the fines could total to more than $45 million.
However, the primary goal of these cameras is to serve as a deterrent for fines and save lives on the road.
After the trial period, South Australians were given a 'grace period', and on 19 September, the SA government will start fining distracted drivers caught on camera.
These penalties could cost drivers $640 in fines and three demerit points.
The fines collected will go to the Community Road Safety Fund, which supports initiatives such as safety improvements, education programs, and advertising campaigns.
These efforts are vital in fostering a culture of road safety.
As of writing, the cameras have been operational at five locations across Adelaide.
Signages will also be installed to warn drivers of their presence.
These precautions aim to discourage drivers from reaching for their phones while driving.
In other news, the NSW Government doubled the number of mobile speed camera sites in the area, with an additional 2700 locations.
They will also activate seatbelt detection cameras by Monday, 1 July 2024, hoping to decrease any road injuries and fatalities.
Have you noticed an increase in distracted driving in your area? What measures could effectively prevent this dangerous behaviour? Let's talk about it and share your insights with us in the comments below.
As we navigate the roads, it's crucial to stay focused and aware, not just for our safety but also for everyone.
However, many Aussies fell short in this regard, as evidenced by the startling number of drivers caught using their phones while driving.
In an effort to combat the rise in road deaths—which surged by nearly 10 per cent nationally compared to the previous year—South Australia rolled out mobile phone detection cameras.
This $16 million initiative was part of a broader strategy to reduce road injuries and fatalities, many of which were attributed to driver distraction.
During the cameras' two-month trial period, it scanned seven million vehicles.
It caught 71,044 drivers red-handed with their mobile phones.
This figure is a stark reminder of how common—and dangerous—driver distraction could be.
The illegal activities caught on these cameras are both shocking and disheartening.
From a motorist steering with just their pinky finger to another driver with a dog on their lap and a phone in hand, these reckless behaviours are a severe cause for concern.
If these offences were detected outside the trial phase, the fines could total to more than $45 million.
However, the primary goal of these cameras is to serve as a deterrent for fines and save lives on the road.
After the trial period, South Australians were given a 'grace period', and on 19 September, the SA government will start fining distracted drivers caught on camera.
These penalties could cost drivers $640 in fines and three demerit points.
The fines collected will go to the Community Road Safety Fund, which supports initiatives such as safety improvements, education programs, and advertising campaigns.
These efforts are vital in fostering a culture of road safety.
As of writing, the cameras have been operational at five locations across Adelaide.
Signages will also be installed to warn drivers of their presence.
These precautions aim to discourage drivers from reaching for their phones while driving.
In other news, the NSW Government doubled the number of mobile speed camera sites in the area, with an additional 2700 locations.
They will also activate seatbelt detection cameras by Monday, 1 July 2024, hoping to decrease any road injuries and fatalities.
Key Takeaways
- New mobile phone detection cameras in South Australia detected 70,000 drivers using their phones while driving.
- There was a significant 10 per cent increase in road deaths in Australia last year, making it the deadliest year on Australian roads in more than five years.
- Police also caught several drivers engaged in illegal and dangerous activities while driving.
- The fines from road offence detections, which will be issued starting in September, will contribute to the Community Road Safety Fund for road safety initiatives.