SA to introduce mobile phone detection cameras

Posted 12 December, 2022 RAA

Distracted drivers who use their mobile phone behind the wheel will soon run the risk of being caught by new high-tech cameras in South Australia.

Mobile phone detection cameras will be installed at up to eight yet-to-be-determined locations across the state, following legislation passing through State Parliament last week.

The move will bring SA in line with New South Wales and Queensland where the cameras are already in use.

RAA Senior Manager of Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain said distraction was the leading cause of death on SA roads.

“Distraction is consistently the most common contributing factor in fatal crashes, so initiatives such as this, that discourage any form of driver distraction, are welcome,” Mr Mountain said.

“It’s so important that when we get behind the wheel that we are focused on what we are doing, aware of our environment and drive to keep ourselves and other road users safe.”

In the past five years, SAPOL data shows 30,583 drivers were caught using their phones by police.

How do the cameras work?

The cameras operate 24 hours per day, in all weather conditions, and capture images of vehicles’ front cabin space. Their aim is to detect illegal mobile phone use.

Artificial intelligence automatically reviews the images, detecting drivers who are using their phones and excluding motorists who are obeying the law.

Images likely to depict a driver illegally using a mobile phone are then assessed by a human reviewer, before a fine is sent out.

When will they be operational?

The new cameras are set to be up and running by the end of 2023, followed by a three-month grace period when any drivers caught using their mobile will be sent educational material rather than fined.

The fine for using a mobile phone is $565 plus a $94 Victims of Crime Levy and three demerit points.

All revenue raised from fines generated by the cameras following the grace period will be sent to a road safety fund.