Do you already know what a phone flash is? This new, smart flash is being deployed nationwide by the police to fine people who are using their phones while driving. So, do you ever find yourself tempted to quickly reply to that one text, select a new song from your Spotify playlist, or call your mum and tell her all about your day while driving? Then you'd better be warned! Because whether you're driving your own car, a car hire for a road trip or drives in a van to collect your goods; You can no longer be discreetly on your phone! In this article, we will therefore tell you more about these innovative phone flashers; where they are set up and what the consequences are if you are caught.
What is the purpose of speed cameras for phone use?
Since 1 July 2021, the police have been deploying mobile phone camera detection devices. By fining people who use their phones while driving, they hope to reduce smartphone use in cars and thereby increase road safety. The technology of the mobile phone camera detection device was tested for months using machine learning before the device was introduced. And as these tests were successful, the smartphone camera detection device is now being used nationwide.
Working of the phone flash light in hand
Using artificial intelligence, the phone's camera can precisely detect when a driver is holding a mobile electronic device. This electronic device could be a smartphone, but also a tablet or a navigation device, for example. As the cameras use infrared technology, smartphone users can also be caught at night.
A phone's torch looks like a small, bright light.
A telephone flash unit is positioned on a flyover or a higher point on the road and is directed downwards onto the road, usually through a bridge railing. The smartphone speed camera looks no different from a normal security camera, but can be recognised by its elevated position with the lens facing downwards. The images are sent via cables to a computer in the van of an Electronic Traffic Supervision team.
Where are phone speed cameras located?
Mobile phone speed cameras are not located in verges or cars, but rather above the road. They are usually placed on overpasses above motorways or another elevated point with a view of the road. The cameras of mobile phone speed cameras are directed downwards at an angle, so that the illegal act, the driver, and the vehicle registration plate are clearly visible. The offender's face is usually not captured, but the hands holding the mobile phone are. The Netherlands is a pioneer in Europe with its mobile phone speed cameras, as only Australia is already extensively using these smart cameras. Traffic fine abroad which therefore won't happen quickly as a result of a cleverly placed phone flash.
What happens if the mobile phone flash catches you?
If the camera detected that you were holding an electronic device while driving, a photograph will be taken of you as the offender and of your vehicle's registration number. This photograph will first go to the police station, where an officer will check if the camera's identification of the offence was correct. If it was, a notification will be issued, and the Central Judicial Collection Agency will be instructed to fine you. You will then receive the fine, including the photograph as evidence, at home within a few weeks.
Fine amount if you were caught speeding
Caught by a phone flash? You'll have to dig deep into your pockets then. The fine for using a smartphone while driving is €240, excluding €9 in administrative costs. That's not nothing! You'll certainly think twice next time before you click on that one app notification. Although smartphone speed cameras aren't our best friend, we understand the introduction of this device very well. After all, safety comes first!
