While 99 percent of Australian drivers adhere to road safety laws, a significant number continue to incur fines for mobile phone and seatbelt violations. Authorities have issued a stark reminder that even a minor “lapse” can result in a $423 fine, as AI-powered cameras increasingly monitor compliance.
The renewed warning comes as New South Wales (NSW) has utilized these advanced cameras for over a year, with Western Australia currently trialing similar technology before full enforcement begins later this year. The cameras are designed to capture high-definition images of vehicles, identifying infractions that are then verified by human reviewers.
Impact of AI-Powered Cameras on Road Safety
Leading traffic lawyer Hayder Shkara has observed a noticeable increase in inquiries for legal assistance since the enforcement of these cameras began. “Drivers are shocked at the precision of the technology and what the law actually is,” said Shkara, principal lawyer at Justice Family Lawyers. He noted that the cameras are catching more than just blatant offenders, with many drivers fined for seemingly minor infractions like adjusting a GPS or changing music.
Shkara recounted a case where a passenger was fined for wearing a seatbelt incorrectly, having worn it around their body for comfort. This highlights a common misunderstanding of road laws, which the cameras are now bringing to light.
Statistics and Road Safety Concerns
Authorities face a daunting challenge in reducing dangerous driving behaviors, as national road tolls have reached their highest levels in 15 years. In NSW alone, the cameras have checked 140 million vehicles, with 99 percent of drivers complying with the law. However, approximately 75,000 drivers have been caught, with 88 percent of these fines related to improper seatbelt use.
Last year, 34 individuals died on NSW roads while not wearing a seatbelt. This year, another 11 lives have been lost.
According to Transport NSW, correctly wearing a seatbelt doubles the chances of surviving a crash and significantly reduces the risk of serious injury. The Minns Government has urged NSW drivers to adhere strictly to seatbelt laws.
Legal Challenges and Compliance
For those caught by the cameras, contesting fines can be challenging. Each offence in NSW carries a $423 fine and three demerit points, increasing to six during double demerit periods. The fine has risen from $410 since the start of the new financial year. Shkara advises that contesting fines is difficult unless there is a genuine error or “exceptional circumstance.”
“In terms of contesting, success really hinges on the specifics,” Shkara explained. “That said, we’ve had a few wins where the images were ambiguous.”
With the inclusion of seatbelt detection, drivers are encouraged to double-check compliance before driving. The cameras operate by capturing images of passing cars, which are reviewed by AI software. Images showing an offence are verified by a person, while non-offensive images are deleted within an hour.
Future Implications and Road Safety Initiatives
The introduction of AI-powered cameras represents a significant shift in road safety enforcement, aiming to reduce fatalities and encourage compliance with road laws. As technology continues to evolve, drivers can expect even more sophisticated systems to ensure safety on the roads.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of wearing seatbelts correctly, whether as a driver or passenger, to prevent avoidable tragedies. The ongoing deployment of these cameras is part of a broader effort to enhance road safety and reduce the national road toll.
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