As of 1 November 2021, the software on Queensland traffic cameras will be updated to allow new artificial intelligence (AI) to be watching Queensland drivers. The software will be determining if people are wearing their seatbelts and checking if drivers are using their mobile phones. 

The new camera upgrade comes with a tough new regime which will be targeting individuals who break the rules. Offenders will be looking at hefty fines of up to $1,000.00 and potential double demerit points as penalties for offences. 

The software will analyse the photo taken by the camera to search for illegal use of mobile phones, to determine if you are wearing a seatbelt and to ensure you are wearing the seatbelt correctly. Where an offence is detected by the AI, the image in question will be reviewed by an authorised Transport and Main Roads officer to ensure that the software has correctly identified an offence. Where no offence is detected, the image will be deleted.

There will be no longer be warnings issued to drivers who are caught using their mobile phone devices, instead heavy punishments of a fine for $1,033.00 and losing four (4) demerit points will be the penalty for being caught on your mobile phone. If you are caught without wearing your seatbelt or improperly wearing a seatbelt you will face a $413.00 fine and lose three (3) demerit points. Repeat offenders will be facing double demerit points for further offences which occur within a 12-month period. 

Urban and regional areas of Queensland will have portable and fixed mobile phone and seatbelt detection cameras installed to allow the AI software to be in use across the state. The cameras will take photos of each vehicle travelling in the lane of traffic that is being monitored. The photos will include the inside of the vehicle, mainly the front seats to allow for better detection of the offences. 

Our team specialise in criminal defence and traffic law. Our role is to sit down with you and work out the strategy that will get you the best possible result. If you have any questions about this article or any other topic of law, please call our team of experts on 1300 066 669.