Road safety is a paramount concern in Tasmania, as it is across the globe. In an effort to further protect lives and reduce accidents, Tasmania has introduced new regulations aimed at enforcing seatbelt usage and preventing drivers from using mobiles while behind the wheel. These measures are part of a broader initiative to enhance road safety and prevent accidents.
Tasmania’s Road Safety Initiative
The Tasmania Road Safety Advisory Council (RSAC) enacted a comprehensive programme to catch errant motorists in the act.
A pilot operation initiated in April 2023 involved testing the state’s existing speed cameras to flag down instances of drivers or passengers not wearing seatbelts or drivers using their mobiles. The cameras, which are mounted on trailers, special police SUVs or as handheld speed detector guns, are capable of capturing those acts even when the vehicles are at higher speeds.
At the time of the trials, no tickets were issued, but the images caught during the period were used to fine-tune the software in accurately tagging the violations.
The system officially went live on 21 August 2023. ABC News Tasmania reported on 22 August that in the estimated 43 hours since the system went active, the police already tagged 339 violations. The Tasmanian government also coupled the system rollout with a public awareness campaign called “Click. Store. Go,” with the underlying message being that you should click on your seatbelt, store your phone, and you can go on your way. The public can also be encouraged to suggest locations with verified histories of speeding accidents and road features where the police can set up the cameras.
The programme implementation came on the heels of RSAC data which recorded 18 deaths and 190 injuries on state roads at the time.
A followup evaluation by the Tasmania government business scrutiny committee in November 2023 revealed that the violation count for phone use and unbuckled seatbelts since the system’s activation was tallied at 947, in addition to 42,947 speeding citations since the speed cameras were activated in 2022. Transport Minister Michael Ferguson said the deployment of the cameras led to average vehicle speeds going down 1.2 kilometres per hour and a 5.1 per cent drop in speedy drivers. This may include drivers being more cautious on whether they are using phones behind the wheel.
Technology plays a dual role in combating distracted driving. While mobile phone usage can be a source of distraction, it also offers solutions to reduce distractions. Many vehicles now come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing drivers to use hands-free technology to make calls and send messages. Additionally, smartphone apps can be used to block incoming calls and texts while driving, further minimising distractions.
Seatbelt Usage
Seatbelts are one of the most effective safety features in vehicles, and their proper use can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death in accidents. In Tasmania, enforcing seatbelt usage has been a priority, leading to the implementation of measures like traffic cameras.
Traffic Cameras
Traffic cameras play a crucial role in monitoring and enforcing seatbelt usage. They are strategically placed at various locations across Tasmania to capture images and video footage of vehicles. These cameras help identify drivers and passengers who are not wearing seatbelts, allowing law enforcement agencies to issue fines and penalties.
The introduction of traffic cameras has had a positive impact on road safety. It serves as a constant reminder to drivers and passengers about the importance of buckling up. Furthermore, the potential consequences of not wearing seatbelts act as a deterrent, encouraging compliance with seatbelt laws.
No Mobiles Behind the Wheel
Distracted driving, particularly the use of mobiles while driving, has become a significant road safety concern in Tasmania and around the world. To address this issue, Tasmania has implemented strict rules against drivers using mobiles.
Drivers are prohibited from:
- Holding a phone while driving.
- Using a phone’s functions, such as texting, making calls (except with hands-free technology), or browsing the internet.
- Watching or recording videos on a phone while driving.
These regulations are designed to reduce distractions and enhance the concentration of drivers on the road. People caught in the act will be fined three demerit points and a $390 fine.
The Bottom Line
Tasmania’s commitment to road safety through the enforcement of seatbelt usage and strict rules against mobile phone use while driving is a commendable effort to protect lives on the road. Traffic cameras play a vital role in promoting compliance with these regulations, serving as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices.
Seniors may see the benefits in those restrictions when they want comfort and safety in travelling Tasmania. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and by adhering to regulations and adopting safe driving practices, we can all contribute to safer roads in Tasmania and beyond.
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DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute official advice. A.S.A.G. is not affiliated with any mentioned brands or companies.