AI safety cameras are now used across Western Australia to detect mobile phone and seatbelt offences. Understanding how these cameras operate, the penalties that may apply, and your options if you receive an infringement can help you make informed decisions and protect your licence.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) safety cameras are now a major part of road enforcement across Western Australia. These cameras are designed to automatically detect illegal mobile phone use and seatbelt offences, with the aim of improving road safety and reducing serious injuries and fatalities on WA roads.
While the technology has been praised for reducing dangerous driving behaviour, it has also generated controversy due to concerns about incorrect fines, passenger-related penalties, and the growing financial impact on motorists.
What Are AI Safety Cameras?
AI safety cameras use advanced imaging technology and artificial intelligence software to detect drivers who are:
- Holding or touching a mobile phone while driving
- Failing to wear a seatbelt correctly
- Driving with passengers who are not properly restrained
Unlike traditional police enforcement, these cameras operate 24 hours a day and can monitor large volumes of traffic automatically.
The Intended Benefits of AI Cameras
Reduction in Dangerous Driving
According to the WA Government, the introduction of AI safety cameras has led to a significant reduction in unsafe driving behaviours, with reports suggesting up to an 80% decrease in certain offences such as illegal mobile phone use and incorrect seatbelt wearing.
Continuous Enforcement
AI cameras operate around the clock, unlike traditional roadside policing. This allows authorities to detect offences that may otherwise go unnoticed and encourages drivers to remain compliant at all times.
Funding Road Safety Initiatives
Revenue generated from infringements is directed into Western Australia’s Road Trauma Trust Account, which funds road safety programs, education campaigns, and community initiatives aimed at reducing road trauma.
Concerns and Controversies
Despite the intended safety benefits, many Western Australian drivers have raised concerns about the fairness and reliability of the AI camera system.
Drivers Fined for Passenger Conduct
One major criticism is that drivers can receive fines when passengers fail to wear seatbelts correctly. In some cases, motorists have argued they had little or no control over a passenger adjusting or incorrectly wearing a seatbelt during a journey.
Incorrect or Disputed Infringements
There have also been reports of false positives, where the AI system incorrectly identified lawful conduct as an offence. Examples have included compliant seatbelt use being mistaken for mobile phone handling or other objects being incorrectly identified by the system.
For many drivers, disputing these infringements can be stressful and time-consuming, often requiring court proceedings or formal reviews.
Multiple Fines Before Warning Notices Arrive
Because infringement notices are commonly issued by mail, some motorists have received multiple fines for the same repeated behaviour before they were even aware they had committed an offence.
In response to community concern, the WA Government has introduced review mechanisms for duplicate infringements in certain circumstances.
Current Penalties in Western Australia
Penalties for AI camera-detected offences in Western Australia remain significant.
Mobile Phone Offences
Using or touching a mobile phone while driving may result in:
- A minimum $500 fine
- 3 demerit points
Seatbelt Offences
Failing to properly wear or adjust a seatbelt may result in:
- A minimum $550 fine
- 4 demerit points
Higher penalties may apply depending on the circumstances and number of offences detected.
What Should You Do If You Receive an Infringement?
If you receive an infringement notice from an AI safety camera, it is important to carefully review:
- The details of the alleged offence
- Any accompanying photographs
- The timing and circumstances of the incident
In some situations, you may be entitled to:
- Seek a review of the infringement
- Apply for withdrawal of duplicate infringements
- Elect to have the matter heard in court
Obtaining legal advice early can help you understand your options and avoid unnecessary penalties or licence consequences.
How Our Firm Can Help
At Appius Lawyers, we assist Western Australian drivers with traffic infringements, licence matters, and disputed camera offences. If you believe you have been incorrectly fined or need advice regarding demerit points, court elections, or infringement reviews, our team can help you understand your rights and the best path forward.
Contact Appius Lawyers today for professional legal advice regarding AI camera infringements and traffic law matters in Western Australia.
