In recent years, Queensland has implemented innovative measures to enhance road safety, one of which includes the introduction of mobile phone detector cameras. These cameras play a crucial role in enforcing laws aimed at curbing distracted driving, particularly concerning the unlawful use of mobile phones while operating a vehicle. In this blog, we delve into what mobile phone detector cameras are, how they function, and the legal implications for drivers in Queensland.

What are Mobile Phone Detector Cameras?

Mobile phone detector cameras are sophisticated devices equipped with advanced technology designed to detect drivers who are unlawfully using mobile phones while behind the wheel. These cameras are strategically placed along Queensland roads, capturing real-time footage to identify drivers engaging in prohibited activities such as texting, calling, or using social media apps on their phones.

How Do Mobile Phone Detector Cameras Work?

Mobile phone detector cameras utilise artificial intelligence and image processing algorithms to analyse images and detect specific behaviours indicative of mobile phone usage by drivers. These cameras can identify drivers holding or interacting with a mobile phone while driving, even in varied lighting and weather conditions. Once a violation is detected, the camera captures photographic evidence, including the vehicle’s registration plate, to facilitate enforcement action.

What Does The Law Say?

To prioritise road safety, full attention while driving is crucial. Queensland law strictly prohibits holding a mobile phone in hand or having it anywhere on the body while driving, even when stopped in traffic. The phone’s status, whether turned on or off, doesn’t affect the offence.

Illegal mobile phone use encompasses holding the device in hand or resting it on any part of the body, such as the lap or shoulder. Even if the phone isn’t being actively used, fines apply if it’s held or carried on the body.

Additional Restrictions

Additional restrictions on mobile phone usage apply to learner and P1 drivers under the age of 25. They are prohibited from using hands-free devices, wireless headsets, or the loudspeaker function of a mobile phone while driving. Even if the phone is stored in a pocket or pouch, it cannot be used in any manner, including touching, viewing, or operating it via voice commands.

Instances You Can Use Your Phone in the Car

You can hold a phone when you are safely stopped to:

• Pay for something, for instance at a drive-through
• Gain access to or from a car park or road-related area
• Present a digital driver’s licence or other document to police when asked
• Get money, card or licence out of a phone wallet for the above purposes

You can also use your phone when you are safely parked with the intention of staying at that place.

If you’re an open or P2 licence holder, you can touch your mobile phone for hands-free use if the phone is in a cradle attached to the vehicle. Hands-free use can include:

• Accepting a call
• Using navigation apps
• Skipping a song
• Accepting/ending a trip as a rideshare driver

The placement of your mobile phone should not block your view of the road while driving.

Open and P2 licence holders can use their phones hands-free if it’s in a pocket or pouch, but they mustn’t touch or look at it; only voice commands are allowed.

Regardless of how safely the mobile phone is being used, the driver must always maintain control of the vehicle and drive attentively.

Penalties for Illegal Mobile Phone Use While Driving

A fine of $1,161 and four demerit points are imposed for using a mobile phone illegally while driving. This includes holding it in your hand or having it resting on any part of your body, such as your lap, regardless of whether the phone is turned on or in use. The use of artificial intelligence by mobile phone detector cameras facilitates the detection of offenders, with roadside policing enforcing the same penalties.

Repeat Offences and Double Demerit Points

Double demerit points apply for some repeat offences committed within a 12-month period. This underscores the seriousness of the offence and the need for drivers to comply with the law consistently.

Need Legal Assistance?

If you have been issued a fine or are facing legal repercussions due to a mobile phone detector camera violation in Queensland, seek legal advice from the experts at Guest Lawyers. Our experienced team can provide guidance and representation to help you navigate the legal process effectively. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your rights on the road.