By Emma Harrington
Published: Wednesday, March 22, 2023
Mobile phone detection cameras are being trialled for the first time in South Australia in an effort to reduce road trauma caused by driver distraction.
The high-tech cameras have been installed on South Road, Torrensville, as part of a State Government trial that runs until late April.
Inattention is identified as a contributing factor in about half of all lives lost and over a third of serious injuries on South Australian roads, according to the Department for Infrastructure and Transport.
RAA Senior Manager of Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain said it was important to thoroughly test the cameras in a range of environments to ensure they function reliably and consistently.
“This will ensure people can have confidence in the integrity of mobile phone detection cameras,” Mr Mountain said.
“It also provides an opportunity to learn from similar trials that have been undertaken in the eastern states, prior to their roll out in New South Wales and Queensland.”
Motorists on mobiles
Drivers caught using their mobile phone while behind the wheel in the past five years.
A recent samotor poll, revealed that more than three quarters of respondents supported the introduction of mobile phone detection cameras.
The cameras are already in use in New South Wales and Queensland, and they’re currently being trialled in Victoria and the ACT.
Following a review of the SA trial, cameras will be installed at seven locations across metropolitan Adelaide by early 2024.
In the past five years, SAPOL data shows 30,583 drivers were caught using their phones by police.
The fine for using a mobile phone is $565 plus a $94 Victims of Crime Levy and three demerit points.
During the SA trial, the State Government will ensure motorists’ privacy and will not impose fines or demerit points.