Texting while driving is a massive no, as we all know. However, as observed by many towing services in Brisbane, many people continue to do so. Drivers’ use of cell phones has resulted in numerous accidents all around the world. The Australian government has resolved to step up its efforts to prevent these tragic events. The use of mobile phone detection cameras is one of the many ways.
Here Is The List Of Everything There Is To Know About Phone Detection Cameras According To The Towing Services In Brisbane:
How Do Mobile Phone Detection Cameras Work?
Drivers who use their cell phones illegally while driving is now more likely to get caught. Because of the mobile phone detection cameras, this is the case. But what exactly are they, and why are they causing such a stir?
The purpose of mobile phone detection cameras is to identify drivers who are using their phones while driving. Despite the fact that texting, calling, or using the internet is a traffic offence, numerous people continue to do so. It is impossible to capture drivers who are constantly on their phones, which is according to the towing services in Brisbane is the primary reason behind the installation of these cameras.
The detectors were created by a University of Melbourne engineering graduate whose close friend was killed when he was hit by a driver who was suspected of using a cellphone.
The cameras can see past the windscreen of the driver. They’ll check to see if the driver is texting or talking on their phone while driving. Each detector is made up of two camera pairs. The first is made to shoot pictures through the windshield. The other is then entrusted with photographing the licence plate.
To be clear, as long as you are not driving, you are permitted to use your phone while in the car. These cameras are currently installed in New South Wales. And if one of the state’s ten cameras spots you texting a friend or doing whatever else on your phone, here’s what will happen:
- The camera will capture a picture of you as you are using your smartphone or mobile device, capturing you in the act.
- A person in charge or an authorized adjudicator will then receive this snapshot.
- Your photo will be reviewed by a person.
- If you are found to have broken the specific traffic regulation against distracted driving due to cell phone use, you will be fined $344 right away. If you do it in a school zone, you’ll have to pay a higher fine of $457.
- An infringement notice will be delivered to your mailbox.
- If you believe you have not broken any regulations, you may seek a review.
- Drivers found using their cellphones in Queensland and Brisbane will not be penalized right away. They will instead be given a warning. A repeat offence will result in the imposition of a fine.
- The highest penalty for using a phone while driving is in Queensland. If detected, you might face a fine of up to $1,000 as well as four penalty points. Meanwhile, Brisbane will slap a $496 fine and four penalty points on your record.
According to towing services in Brisbane distracted driving is a serious issue. It is as serious as drunk driving in Australia and many other nations. It has resulted in several injuries and fatalities. According to studies conducted by towing services in Brisbane, up to one out of every four crashes is caused by distracted driving, which can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- An increase in the number of collisions with other road users.
- Property damage is more likely.
- Congestion has increased. As a result of the inferior traffic flow and the driver’s use of a smartphone on the road, the motorist is driving erratically.
- After the traffic lights turn green, the driver’s reaction time is slower.
Drivers who use their phones while driving are four times more likely to die in a car collision, according to Austow’s research. According to towing services in Brisbane emailing, texting, and surfing raise the likelihood of colliding with another car by up to ten times.
The cameras are projected to prevent up to 20 collisions (both serious and fatal) each year. Since its inception in 2019, the state of New South Wales has received over 16,500 fines. This graph demonstrates that there are a significant number of drivers that do not follow traffic laws.
While no mobile phone detection cameras have yet been installed in Western Australia, there are currently restrictions in place in the state and across the country prohibiting drivers from using their phones while driving.
In the opinion of towing services in Brisbane Western Australia and Queensland have the most severe penalties. You will be fined $1,000 and given four penalty points if you are caught driving with your phone in your hand or even in your ear.
Are These Phone Detection Cameras Actually Effective?
Towing services in Brisbane have stated that the cameras are strategically situated to detect whether or not a driver is using a cellphone. You won’t be able to hide the device in your lap if you attempt. To address the last question, yes, they are effective.
They went through extensive testing to ensure that they don’t miss anyone attempting to hide their activities.
You’re also foolish if you try to use your phone late at night, assuming that the cameras won’t notice. Even at night, the method is effective, owing to the fact that the majority of accidents occur after sunset.
It also works in all weather situations, detecting cell phone use even at speeds of up to 300 km/h.
Are the Highways Any Safer Now?
Several testings were conducted before the cameras were released and utilized. Over eight million automobiles were assessed during one of these trials. 100,000 drivers were seen using their phones while driving out of these automobiles.
The goal is to accomplish 135 million checks per year by 2023 where the cameras are actively watching drivers. More than five million automobiles are registered in New South Wales, according to estimates.
According to towing services in Brisbane every year, about 350 people are killed in car accidents. This figure excludes injuries and damage to public property.
Only NSW, Brisbane, and Queensland have implemented these mobile phone detection cameras, so there is still a long way to go. Because these three states have the largest populations, they also have the greatest number of drivers. Western Australia, along with the other of Australia’s states and territories, may follow suit.
Despite the presence of these cameras, many people continue to drive while holding their mobile devices in their hands. It’s a collaborative project with results expected in the next few years.
Where Do Common Citizens Stand On This?
Contrary to popular belief, browsing and texting are not permitted even while the phone is in a mounting bracket. While there was some outrage since some people wanted to keep using their cellphones while driving, safety would always come first.
However, some Australians are concerned about their privacy.
People are concerned about their privacy, particularly their photographs, and how the data will be maintained because pictures of the drivers will be collected on a regular basis. According to the agencies in charge of monitoring and implementing camera programmes and fines, they are bound by severe requirements to protect road users’ personal information.
Recommendations From Towing Services In Brisbane
Towing services in Brisbane as well as the authorities also understand that there are times when you must make or receive a critical phone call. Don’t worry; it’s not against the law to use your phone in such situations.
However, you should only make a hands-free phone call, which means you should never hold the phone in your hand while driving with your other hand on the wheel. The phone must be kept in the cradle or in your pocket at all times.
To take a call, use your Bluetooth earpiece or headset. Tell the person on the other end of the line that you’re driving. They will not wait for you to call them back if the call is cut for some reason.
Everyone in the car, except the driver, is allowed to use their phone. If you are the driver, however, you must observe the following guidelines:
- You are not permitted to use your phone while driving or while stuck in a traffic jam.
- The regulation also makes it illegal to use a cellphone when stopped at a red light.
- You can’t conduct video calls, send text messages or emails, or use social media unless your automobile is parked.
- Unless you are in a parked car, it is illegal to snap pictures or use the internet.
- A mobile phone, on the other hand, can be used to make an emergency call.
- You are also permitted to use your phone to make a payment, such as when ordering meals at a drive-through.
- Another exemption is if you need to hand your phone to a passenger in the back seat.
- You may listen to music on your smartphone or use the phone’s audio functions, such as pressing the play or next buttons. The phone, on the other hand, must remain in the cradle.
- It is legal to use a phone for assistance, such as to obtain GPS directions.
- You are not breaking any restrictions if you keep the phone in the cradle and do not operate it with your hands. As a result, if your Bluetooth device allows it, you can make calls.
Please keep in mind that the laws and regulations vary based on the type of licence you have. You are not permitted to utilize the wallet function of your mobile phone if you currently possess a Learner of Provisional Licence.
This includes paying at a drive-through or any other transaction. Even in off-road settings like a car park or driveway, you should park your car first before making a transaction.
Restricted licence holders, such as P1 and P2 drivers and riders, are also prohibited from using mobile phones while driving or riding. They are unable to use Bluetooth or hands-free functions.
Understanding the consequences of using a cell phone while driving will make it easier to avoid getting into problems with the law. If you’re easily tempted, we recommend keeping your phone in your luggage or hiding it in your glove compartment.Towing services in Brisbane understand that it is not only the phone that is the reason behind accidents or roadside emergencies. We want you to be as safe as possible. But under any unfortunate circumstances, if you are stuck in these situations, you can contact Austow Towing Company and we assure you the rest of the process will be as hassle-free as possible.