Distracted motorists beware
Mobile phone detection cameras have now been installed at five high-risk locations across Adelaide.
These locations have been selected with the help of the University of Adelaide’s Centre for Automotive Safety Research, based on data including crash trends and traffic volumes and will be operational later this year.
The cameras are located at:
- South Road, Torrensville (the site of the initial trial)
- Southern Expressway, Darlington
- Port Road, Hindmarsh
- North South Motorway, Regency Park
- Port Wakefield Road, Gepps Cross
Two other locations are under consideration with additional cameras expected to be installed in early 2025.
How do the cameras work?
The cameras use video and still images to monitor vehicles travelling on the road beneath them and capture images through the vehicle’s windscreen.
Artificial intelligence identifies drivers using their mobile phones illegally and then the photo is checked by a trained officer from SA Police (SAPOL). If you’re found to be using a mobile phone while driving, SAPOL issues an expiation notice and forwards it to your address, in much the same way speeding and red-light camera notices are currently issued.
What does this mean for motorists?
If you’re a driver, you should know using a mobile phone behind the wheel is one of the most dangerous actions you can take. You’re risking your safety along with that of your passengers, and other road users. If you’re caught driving while using your mobile phone, you can expect a hefty fine of $540, plus three demerit points and a $99 Victims of Crime Levy.
The fine
The cost for using a mobile phone while driving.
Why is this happening?
Inattention and distraction contribute to about half of all lives lost and more than a third of serious injuries on South Australian roads. Using a mobile phone while driving increases the risk of an injury-causing crash by up to four times and texting increases that risk even more.
What happens if I’m caught doing the wrong thing?
All five cameras are expected to be operational from June 2024, but there will be a three-month grace period until the end of September. During this time, drivers caught doing the wrong thing won’t be fined or issued demerit points but will receive a letter warning them that the camera has detected them using their mobile phone illegally.
After the grace period, normal rules will apply, and all drivers detected by the cameras will be issued with expiation notices.
How can I avoid being fined?
Simple – don’t use your mobile phone when you’re behind the wheel. If you’re worried about the temptation, put your phone in the boot or the glove box, or pull over in a safe spot before you make a call or send a text.
For more information on mobile phone detection cameras, visit Think! Road Safety.
For detailed rules on mobile phone use while driving, read The Driver’s Handbook.
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