More than 8,000 drivers have been affected by South Australia’s new phone detection cameras in their first week of operation, a move that could soon cost them dearly.
The five cameras went into operation on June 19 and from that date through June 25, police said 8,603 possible crimes had been recorded.
So far, 6,397 warning letters have been sent to drivers, and police say not all potential incidents have been determined and the number of letters may increase in the coming days.
Drivers caught by the new cameras during the three-month “educational period” from June to September will not be fined or lose demerit points, but will instead receive a warning letter.
From 19 September, South Australian Police will issue fines and penalties to drivers caught illegally using a mobile phone.
The offence carries a fine of $556, plus a crime victim’s levy of $120 for adults and $20 for minors under 18, and three demerit points.
Cameras have been installed at five high-risk locations: South Road, Torrensville, North South Motorway, Regency Park, Port Wakefield Road, Gepps Cross, Southern Expressway, Darlington and Port Road, Hindmarsh.
Drivers have been given three months’ notice before fines begin to be issued. photo South African Police