‘Multi-offence’ road camera being tested on Melbourne drivers
A powerful all-in-one roadside “smart camera” that can spot everything from phone use to seatbelt violations has appeared on this busy Melbourne road.
A roadside camera with powerful new technology is being trialled on a major road in Melbourne’s inner east, with the company behind the “all-in-one” system claiming it’s capable of identifying multiple driving offences at once.
US company Verra Mobility has deployed its new mobile “smart cameras” across two locations on Canterbury Rd in Albert Park.
The four-week trial is running independently of the Department of Transport, with the company hoping to hone the new system’s ability to catch drivers committing red light, bus lane, seat belt and mobile phone related offences.
But the company has assured locals that no fines will be issued to any motorists caught by the trailers, with a four-week “non-enforcement technical trial” using the data to “help shape future public safety and mobility programs”.
Verra Mobility director Steven Crutchfield said one of the technology’s biggest benefits is its impact on the mindset of drivers.
“Uncertainty changes behaviour,” he said.
“When drivers understand that speed limits could be enforced anywhere at any time, they are far more likely to slow down – not just at camera locations, but across their entire journey.”
The cameras are also equipped with CCTV systems, fire suppression systems, GPS tracking, and a built-in generator, all in a mobile trailer unit.
The company says it has already tested the systems in other jurisdictions, claiming its 9000 camera systems across the globe have helped governments reduce road deaths “by targeting dangerous driving anywhere, anytime”.
It is currently unclear whether Victoria will use the camera’s for actual enforcement, with the Department of Transport’s role so far limited to just authorising the independent trial.
While offences caught by the camera won’t be prosecuted, motorists took to social media to complain about the possibility of the technology being deployed permanently.
“Why do we need it?” one user asked.
“After travelling to the US they have shown that most people behave without cameras.
“The flow of is steady and no concerns in looking out for cameras which prove to be a greater distraction.”
Another user said it was only a matter of time before the “money grabbing machines” started issuing infringements.
