Key Takeaways
- Mobile safety cameras are being used nationwide to provide general deterrence to speeding
- The cameras are operated "anytime, anywhere" and are not marked to increase their effectiveness
- Research has shown that unsigned mobile safety cameras are twice as effective at reducing crashes as signposted mobile safety cameras
- The cameras use radar to measure speed and identify the direction of a vehicle, and take a picture when speeding is detected
- The consequences of being caught speeding by a mobile safety camera are the same as if a vehicle was caught speeding by any other safety camera
Introduction to Mobile Safety Cameras
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has rolled out mobile safety cameras across the country, replacing traditional vans, to provide general deterrence to speeding. These cameras are operated nationwide, at any time and anywhere, and are not marked to increase their effectiveness. According to NZTA, research has shown that unsigned mobile safety cameras are twice as effective at reducing crashes as signposted mobile safety cameras. This approach is designed to encourage drivers to be mindful of their speed at all times, rather than just in specific areas where cameras are known to be present.
How Mobile Safety Cameras Work
The mobile safety cameras use radar to measure the speed and identify the direction of a vehicle, and take a picture when speeding is detected. The cameras are equipped with multiple cameras that measure speed moving towards and away from the front and rear of the vehicle, as well as CCTV cameras. This technology allows the cameras to detect speeding vehicles in two directions and from either side of the road. The cameras are also visible to drivers, and NZTA has stated that they will not be hidden or disguised in any way. This approach is designed to provide a clear and visible deterrent to speeding, while also ensuring that drivers are aware of the presence of the cameras.
Consequences of Being Caught Speeding
The consequences of being caught speeding by a mobile safety camera are the same as if a vehicle was caught speeding by any other safety camera. According to the NZTA website, the cameras operate day and night, and the penalties for speeding are enforced regardless of the type of camera used. This approach is designed to provide a consistent and fair system for enforcing speed limits, and to encourage drivers to be mindful of their speed at all times. NZTA has also stated that the mobile safety cameras are designed to provide general, rather than site-specific, deterrence to speeding, and that they will be used to support other road safety initiatives and enforcement activities.
Community Engagement and Education
NZTA has encouraged communities to work with the relevant road controlling authorities to ensure that messages meet rules and requirements. This approach is designed to provide a collaborative and community-focused approach to road safety, and to ensure that drivers are aware of the risks and consequences of speeding. By working together, communities and road safety authorities can help to reduce the number of crashes and injuries on our roads, and to create a safer and more responsible driving culture. NZTA has also stated that the mobile safety cameras are just one part of a broader approach to road safety, and that they will be used in conjunction with other initiatives and enforcement activities to support safer driving behaviors.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the mobile safety cameras are an important part of NZTA’s approach to road safety, and are designed to provide a general deterrent to speeding. By using unsigned cameras that are operated nationwide, NZTA is able to provide a consistent and fair system for enforcing speed limits, and to encourage drivers to be mindful of their speed at all times. As the cameras continue to be rolled out across the country, it is likely that we will see a reduction in the number of crashes and injuries on our roads, and a safer and more responsible driving culture. By working together, communities and road safety authorities can help to support this approach, and to create a safer and more sustainable transport system for everyone.
