Posted on 04/13/2018 1:12:28 AM PDT by cba123
NEW hi-tech cameras that detect drivers using their mobile phones without them even knowing and automatically issues fines could soon change everything.
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DISTRACTION is one of the leading causes of fatal road crashes in Australia but new hi-tech cameras that detect drivers using their mobile phones without them even knowing could soon change everything.
A New South Wales Police spokesman told news.com.au that officers currently "use a variety of methods to detect drivers using their phones while driving".
"Line-of-site, by trained officers is the primary method of detection, however, long-ranged cameras have been used with success, and helmet cameras in motorcycle police continue to be used," the spokesman said.
But that technology could soon be replaced by stationary cameras that automatically issue an infringement notice without the driver even realising they’ve been sprung.
(full article) http://www.news.com.au/technology/innovation/motoring/hitech/drivers-using-mobile-phones-could-be-fined-without-even-knowing-theyve-been-caught/news-story/ecb141e8552b39560f7f395802e447d7
(Excerpt) Read more at news.com.au ...
I’d like to see it in place, but only by states that ban the use of cell phones as most already ban texting. If you’re going to have a law to enforce safety, then use it.
A 2014 report from the National Safety Council, which compiles data on injuries and fatalities from 2013 and earlier, concluded that use of mobile phones caused 26% of U.S. car accidents. Just 5% of mobile phone-related accidents in the U.S. involved texting: “The majority of the accidents involve drivers distracted while talking on handheld or hands-free cellphones.”
In 2010, the State Farm insurance company stated that mobile phone use annually resulted in: 636,000 crashes, 330,000 personal injuries, 12,000 major injuries, 2,700 deaths, and US $43 billion in damages. And uninsured drivers left a lot of the bill to public taxes you and I pay.
We have a hands free law in Washington state where I live. But I don’t think I have ever even heard of a ticket being written to anyone I know for using it the other way. At least this way it can be enforced. And if they are not going to enforce it, then take it off the books. It is just another case of the state riding in on their white horse to save you from the big, bad, cell phone user in a car.
rwood
May consider these sorts of measures. Hope so Los Angeles needs it every day someone gets ran over some time 3 times a night.
Hit and run has became the norm here.
That is advice I had to give to myself; even with hands free and my phone tethered to my car audio via bluetooth. I’m not ashamed to admit that for whatever reason when I talk to someone over the phone (handsfree or no) and eventually hang up, I literally don’t recall that portion of the commute. *poof*, like it didn’t happen.
So for myself, I stay away from cell phone use and driving (and no, not advocating that all others must as well; I just know my limitations and don’t want to get hurt or hurt someone else.)
It's nothing but sheer vanity to assume a phone call needs to be made or answered immediately. I manage quite well without a mobile phone. I don't even turn on the radio when I'm driving, I like peace and quiet and I don't need GPS because I can read a road map...
signed Old Fogey
I remember distinctly when I began advancing through a red light while using my cell phone. (around 20 years ago)
My attention was clearly divided. I was moved by that incident, to recognize the danger to myself and others.
Fortunately Bluetooth equipped cars came along soon. But even while talking over Bluetooth, I occasionally become distracted by the call.
Here in the Peoples’ Republic of California, you will be cited for using a handheld device while driving.
I see some people with two touchscreen devices mounted on their dash and/or windshields.
Distracted people ARE known to cause accidents.
It’s nothing but sheer vanity to assume a phone call needs to be made or answered immediately.
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I don’t disagree but I think they are more concerned about the
texting use as opposed to the verbal side. Remember CBs, etc.
Hey — I just gave my Assie pal a heads’ up. Also, this tech will have all kinds of applications.
“‘It’s as dangerous as DUI!’ Horseflop. Intoxication doesn’t disappear in a split second.”
Actually, you just supported the fact that cell phone users are FAR MORE dangerous than drunks since they get into accidents at the same rate but do so in just a few seconds.
You're welcome to provide categorical/empirical proof of your claim.
You’re welcome to educate yourself by googling the myriad of readily available reports on the subject instead of childishly and lazily dismissing the subject.
So I’m proving your hypothesis?
Who’s the lazy one?
And if they’re readily available are you too lazy to copy and paste them? How about a link?
The fact is you’re making assertions based on emotion and a desire to obtain fleeting retribution for having your armchair moralizing and categorical grumpiness confronted and contradicted.
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