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Speeding detected by a camera is considered a serious traffic offence due to the safety risks it poses. While not as severe as some criminal driving offences, it carries significant penalties and can have serious consequences for your driving record and license status.
A speed camera offence occurs when a vehicle is detected by a fixed or mobile speed camera traveling above the posted speed limit. These cameras use various technologies to measure vehicle speed and capture photographic evidence of the offence.
For a speed camera offence, the prosecution generally needs to prove:
The prosecution typically relies on the photographic evidence and data from the speed camera, which is considered accurate unless proven otherwise.
While speed cameras often operate automatically, police also have the power to:
Other charges that may be related to or accompany a speed camera offence include:
In a recent case in South Australia, a driver challenged a speeding fine based on the accuracy of the speed camera. The court upheld the fine, citing the legislative “aids to proof” that presume the accuracy of certified speed detection devices unless proven otherwise.
Most speed camera offences are dealt with by way of infringement notice without court attendance. However, if you choose to contest the fine:
Speed camera offences are not indictable and are not dealt with in higher courts unless part of more serious charges.
If found guilty in the Local Court, sentencing options include:
Penalties for speeding offences detected by cameras vary depending on the degree of speeding and the jurisdiction. Generally, they include:
Speed camera locations in New South Wales (NSW) are strategically placed to enhance road safety and reduce speeding-related accidents. As of 2024, NSW employs three main types of speed cameras: fixed speed cameras (including school zone fixed cameras), mobile speed cameras, and red-light speed cameras. Fixed speed cameras are typically installed in high-risk areas such as tunnels, while mobile speed cameras are rotated between different locations to maintain unpredictability. Red-light speed cameras are positioned at intersections with traffic lights to detect both speeding and red-light violations.
The NSW government has recently announced plans to significantly expand the mobile speed camera program by adding 2700 new sites, primarily in regional areas. This expansion aims to address the post-Covid increase in road fatalities, with regional NSW set to receive 1650 of these new sites. Despite the increase in potential locations, the total enforcement hours will remain at approximately 21,000 per month across the state. To check specific speed camera locations, NSW residents and visitors can use an online tool provided by Service NSW, which allows searches by location, road, and camera type. This comprehensive approach to speed camera deployment reflects the government’s commitment to improving road safety throughout the state.
Based on the search results, HERE are some key points on how to challenge the accuracy of a speed camera:
Remember, successfully challenging a speed camera reading can be difficult without strong evidence. It's important to carefully consider your options and seek legal advice if you decide to contest the fine in court.
Based on the search results, tHERE are a few key points to consider regarding contesting a speed camera fine and potentially reducing demerit points:
It's important to note that simply contesting a fine does not automatically lead to a reduction in demerit points. The demerit points are typically tied to the offense itself, not the fine amount. If you successfully prove you didn't commit the offense or that the camera was inaccurate, then the demerit points would be removed along with the fine. However, getting a reduced fine doesn't necessarily mean reduced demerit points. If you're considering contesting a speed camera fine, it's advisable to seek legal advice to understand your options and the likelihood of success in your specific situation.
This information is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice. Every speed camera case is unique, and the outcome will depend on the specific circumstances and evidence. If you are facing a speed camera fine and wish to contest it, it is advisable to seek legal representation from an experienced traffic lawyer who can guide you through the process and help protect your driving record.
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