Drivers warned against 'brief lapses' as mobile and seatbelt cameras dish out $423 fines
The renewed message comes as the AI-powered cameras have been enforcing road rules in New South Wales for over a year, with Western Australia in a trial period of similar technology before enforcement begins later this year.
Leading traffic lawyer Hayder Shkara told Yahoo News that his practice has seen an "uptick in inquiries" for his legal services since enforcement began.
"Drivers are shocked at the precision of the technology and what the law actually is," Hayder, principal lawyer at Justice Family Lawyers, said. He warned that he's seeing cases catch out "more than just the obvious offenders".
"Many clients are being fined for brief lapses, like adjusting a GPS or changing the music," he said.
"I recall one passenger who was shocked that a seatbelt had to be worn in a particular way, saying that they had been wearing it around their body for years because it was uncomfortable having it strapped across the shoulder."
Authorities across the country face an uphill battle in turning the tide on dangerous driving, with nationwide road tolls the highest they've been in 15 years.
In NSW, cameras have checked 140 million cars, with 99 per cent of drivers and passengers doing the right thing. But of the approximate 75,000 caught out, 88 per cent of fines were related to incorrect seatbelt use.
Last year, 34 people died on NSW roads while not wearing a seatbelt. This year, another 11 lives have been lost.
According to Transport NSW, wearing a seatbelt correctly doubles the chances of surviving a crash and reduces the risk of serious injury. Last month, the Minns Government called on NSW drivers to follow the law and wear their seatbelts properly
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Can I get out of a mobile or seatbelt fine?
In NSW, each offence attracts a $423 fine and three demerit points, or six during double demerit periods. The fine has increased from $410 since the start of the new financial year.
But according to Shkara, the high-definition quality of images makes getting out of fines a "tough battle" unless there has been a genuine error or "exceptional circumstance".
"In terms of contesting, success really hinges on the specifics," he explained. "That said, we've had a few wins where the images were ambiguous.
"Even a momentary lapse can lead to a fine, and with seatbelt detection now part of the mix, it's worth double-checking everything before you hit the road."
How do mobile and seatbelt detection cameras work?
The cameras operate by capturing images of passing cars, which are reviewed by AI software.
Images that show an offence, such as a seatbelt worn incorrectly, are then verified by a person.
Photos that don't show an offence are permanently deleted within an hour, NSW road safety explained. Those caught breaking the law are fined.
"Whether you're the driver or the passenger, make sure you've always got your seatbelt on correctly," the authority said.
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