World's most powerful roadside camera is now being tested in Australia: What drivers need to know
- New cameras are only collecting data, not fining drivers
- READ MORE: Little-known fact about mobile speed cameras divides drivers
A powerful new roadside camera capable of catching drivers for multiple offences at once has suddenly appeared in Melbourne, leaving some wondering if the state government is considering deploying the tech.
The trailer-mounted device was spotted on Canterbury Road in Albert Park, where one confused motorist asked online: 'Is that for phones?'
The Victorian Department of Transport said the camera is part of a four-week trial by US company Verra Mobility and stressed that no fines will be issued while the technology is being tested.
It said the company is conducting an independent trial, effectively testing its own technology.
Unlike traditional mobile speed cameras, this all-in-one system can nab drivers for speeding, average speed between two points, running red lights, bus lane misuse, seatbelt offences and even mobile phone use.
'This technology is innovative because we can now monitor and detect more than one violation at a time,' a Verra Mobility spokesperson said.
'While people are used to seeing speed cameras, these new trailer-based systems can pick up multiple offences.'
The company said the trial is focused on calibrating and validating the gear, with the results likely to influence whether the cameras are rolled out across Victoria.
The new cameras in Melbounrne's Albert Park have stumped Aussies
A camera on Canterbury Road in Albert Park is collecting data ahead of its potential use
Another key feature is that no operators are needed.
'Any roadside deployment involving personnel exposes the operator to significant risk,' said Steven Crutchfield, Verra Mobility's senior vice president and managing director.
'Our automated trailer-based systems greatly reduce that risk while helping governments across Australia ensure the safety of road users, pedestrians and workers.'
He said that unlike fixed cameras, these mobile units can be shifted almost anywhere, from inner-city streets to country highways.
'When drivers know speed limits could be enforced anywhere at any time, they're more likely to slow down across their whole journey, not just at camera locations,' Mr Crutchfield said.
