What are the new laws and technology that are being used to catch drivers using their phone?
Motorists across New South Wales are being targeted with new high-tech cameras that are being used state-wide to catch people using their phone behind the wheel. Whether you are texting, making phone calls or using social media, you are at risk of being caught and facing a penalty, and potentially losing your drivers licence as a result.
The trial across 45 different locations started in September of 2019. It has now been given the green-light to be implemented across the state. This is a first for the nation and the question remains whether the other states, such as Queensland, will follow suit.
The program is a part of a broader scheme by the New South Wales government. Namely, the New South Wales Road Safety Plan 2021. This scheme also involves fixed and transportable trailer-mounted cameras that utilise long-range artificial intelligence cameras.
How are drivers being caught using their phone?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to detect whether their are mobiles being used in the front cabin space of all vehicles – with particular focus being on the driver.
These images are captured discreetly and are able to provide clear evidence even regardless of the weather conditions or time of day that the photograph was snapped. This evidence is then reviewed by authorised personnel with the intention of determining whether an offence was or wasn’t committed. Up until the point in time that the offender receives a notice in the mail, they will be unaware of what is going on.
Will you lose your drivers licence?
Throughout the trial period, motorists in New South Wales that were caught by these high-tech cameras were only receiving a warning letter. The offending drivers were notified of the offence that they committed and were reminded of the road rules.
Now that the operational period has commenced, offending drivers will not be so lucky. Offending drivers that are caught in New South Wales now will face a loss five demerit points and a $344 fine ($457 in a school zone). New South Wales also has a “double-demerit period” over holiday periods. Hence, raising the penalty to 10 demerit points. As a result of this, some offending will be taken off the roads and lose drivers licence, as well as receiving a pricey fine.
Learner and P1 drivers are prohibited from using any sort of mobile phone – regardless of whether it is hands-free, a wireless headset or a the loudspeaker function. Additionally, if someone is caught for more than one mobile phone offences within one year, double demerit points will also apply.
These penalties are harsh. They are harsh with the intention of changing the behaviour of motorists and reducing fatality on the roads. Only time will tell whether this is a success.