Speed cameras detect drivers on their phones catch 1300

An advanced red light-style camera that detects drivers using mobile phones has caught 1300 motorists breaking the law.

Developed by Sydney-based company One Task, the cameras – a world-first – were tested for VicRoads, the Department of Justice and Victoria Police.

In one five-hour test on the Eastern Freeway 270 people were caught illegally using their phones, and in a CityLink test 1000 people were caught in nine hours.

An advanced red light-style camera that detects drivers using mobile phones has caught 1300 motorists breaking the law (pictured is a stock image)

Alex McCredie, project manager at One Task, said the results show measures to stop drivers from using their phones are not working.

‘It [current enforcement] is not effective at all,’ he told The Herald Sun.

Some of those spotted in the tests were using multiple phones, texting with both hands, using phones in the passenger seat, and even using tablet computers.

Poll

Do you use your mobile phone while driving?

The system involves using advanced cameras along with computer software which can analyse and review images in order to detect illegal mobile phone use.

Mr McCredie said the system should be used to change people’s habits and to educate drivers rather than to fine people. 

‘People will change behaviour when they fear they will be caught anywhere,’ he said.

‘If they don’t think there is a high chance of being caught, it doesn’t really matter how much the fine is.’

In the August Eastern Freeway test 7.1 per cent of the drivers observed broke phone use laws, one every 67 seconds. 

In the November City Link test, conducted over three lanes of traffic, 4.7 per cent of the drivers observed broke phone use laws, one every 30 seconds.

Developed by Sydney-based company One Task, the cameras were tested for VicRoads, the Department of Justice and Victoria Police (pictured is a stock image)

Developed by Sydney-based company One Task, the cameras were tested for VicRoads, the Department of Justice and Victoria Police (pictured is a stock image)

 



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