The mobile speed cameras on Tasmanian roads are reportedly having an “encouraging” effect on reducing road fatalities, but the RACT is calling for more action.
The fleet of cameras is set to grow from 10 to 16 in the coming months, with four more expected to arrive in June and two more in September.
According to the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics, Tasmanian road deaths have decreased by 13 fatalities over the last year.
While the downward trend is good news, RACT Chief Advocacy Officer Garry Bailey cautioned that Tasmanians are still twice as likely to lose their lives on the road compared to the national average.
Bailey commended the state government for its focus on curbing excessive speed and distraction through new enforcement cameras.
“These advanced devices, capable of detecting both speed violations and unlawful mobile phone use, have already resulted in an average speed reduction across the state road network.”
However, he called for more action, urging the government to double the number of cameras from 16 to 32 and allocate all revenue generated from enforcement to enhancing road safety.
Transport Minister Michael Ferguson says the fines from road offences are already deposited into a public account to fund essential government services, including road safety initiatives.
Statistics from the Tasmanian government show that serious injuries have increased by 57.3% compared to last year.
