After extensive testing, phone and seatbelt cameras have officially been turned on across Tasmania.
In addition to the already active speed functionalities, the cameras will now issue fines of $390, along with 3 demerit points, to drivers who are caught using their phones or not wearing a seat belt correctly.
Since the introduction of the mobile cameras, there has been a 1% reduction in speeding across the state.
Every driver who passes a camera is photographed from above, with software then analysing the images to detect if the driver is on the phone and if the driver and passengers are wearing a seatbelt correctly.
According to the State Government, if no offence is detected, “the software program will destroy the image and prevent anyone from viewing or using it”.
“If an offence is detected, the image will be securely transferred to the Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management to verify an offence has occurred before issuing an Infringement Notice.”
Fines will be given to drivers who use or hold a mobile phone while driving, have a mobile phone on their body or clothing, or intentionally look at someone else using a mobile phone while driving.
