The NSW government is contemplating removing all warning signs for speed cameras across the state.
Despite criticism of revenue raising, NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance has indicated that removing the signs is primarily about saving lives.
In 2018, the NSW Auditor General reported that the use of warning signs for mobile speed cameras had reduced their effectiveness in deterring speeding. With the road toll increasing, Mr Constance believes the threat of a speed camera should be the same as that of a random breath test in order to properly deter people from speeding.
The NSW Government has already firmly indicated that it will not place warning signs ahead of new mobile phone use detection cameras.
NRMA spokesman Peter Khoury has criticised the removal of signs, noting that camera warnings in locations with a crash history give motorists an opportunity to slow down. Mr Khoury stressed that warning signs were important because they make people change their behaviour behind the wheel, “not three weeks later when they get a fine in the mail”. The latest review of NSW cameras has indicated that fixed speed cameras have reduced fatalities by 80%. Therefore, it appears that even with warning signs, fixed speed cameras are fulfilling their stated purpose: to reduce the number of crashes at high risk locations.
Wondering where the fixed and mobile speed cameras are located in Newcastle? The NSW Centre for Road Safety currently publishes the locations of all speed cameras on its website.
Hamilton Janke Lawyers has extensive experience in traffic matters. If you, or a loved one, has been charged with a traffic offence contact Hamilton Janke Lawyers 24/7 on 4038 1666.
Key Takeaways
- The NSW government considers removing warning signs for speed cameras to deter speeding more effectively.
- The move is aimed at saving lives by increasing the unpredictability of speed camera locations, similar to the unpredictability of random breath tests.
- Critics, including the NRMA, argue that warning signs encourage immediate behavior change and contribute to road safety.
- Despite concerns about revenue raising, the effectiveness of fixed speed cameras, even with warning signs, in reducing fatalities at high-risk locations is acknowledged.
Written By
James Janke
James Janke is founding partner at Hamilton Janke Lawyers, and has more then decade of experience as a Criminal Defence Lawyer. Admitted to both the Supreme Court of New South Wales and High Court of Australia