New point-to-point cameras able to detect speed, phone and seatbelt use tested in Geraldton

Road users might have been surprised to find new speed camera technology set up in Geraldton over the past fortnight, but no fines were issued as part of the Road Safety Commission’s trial of the latest point-to-point system.

New mobile safety technology able to detect multiple high-risk behaviours other than just speeding, including drivers using their mobile phones while behind the wheel or not wearing a seatbelt, was tested in Geraldton for the first time this month.

The Road Safety Commission aimed to test whether the cameras were suitable for Geraldton roads and how they operated in a windy, coastal environment, as well as on key freight routes.

The cameras can measure spot speed and the average speed between two points and operate 24-7.

The three-month trial across metropolitan and regional WA found out of the 5.1 million vehicles that passed through the cameras, more than 40,000 drivers were using their phones and more than 7800 drivers or front seat passengers were not wearing a seatbelt.

The cameras were also tested on Brand Highway and Indian Ocean Drive in the Mid West.

Although no infringements were issued during the trial, more than 62,000 demerit points could have been given to drivers if cameras were used for enforcement purposes.

The RSC said the worst driver, who was in the metropolitan area, would have accumulated 70 demerit points over five days.

RSC policy and programs director Rebecca Hamilton said the commission was keen to see how the cameras performed on the Mid West coast.

“We understand Geraldton has a unique climate very different to the areas the cameras have been tested during the first phase of the trial,” she said.

“As well as seeing if the cameras are suitable to be used on roads in Geraldton, we’re interested in better understanding any local road safety issues and the driving culture in Geraldton and surrounds.”

The trial concludes on Friday, February 17, and was the third regional deployment as part of its second phase.