Mobile phone detection cameras will soon also be used to detect whether drivers and passengers are using their seatbelts on NSW roads. Seatbelts have been mandatory by law in NSW for more than 50 years, however 15 per cent of deaths on NSW roads every year involved seatbelt noncompliance. Last year, 36 people died in crashes where seatbelt non-usage was reported, and 150 people died while not wearing seatbelts between 2019 and 2023.
“Camera enforcement will be a significant step to reducing needless trauma on the roads that comes at the cost of families, loved ones and the first responders who routinely deal with unimaginable tragedy. “I am glad to announce the July 1 start date to seatbelt camera enforcement as we remember road trauma victims during National Road Safety Week.