What Are Average Speed Cameras?
Average speed cameras, also known as point-to-point cameras, are a clever bit of tech designed to keep our roads safer. Unlike traditional speed cameras that capture your speed at a single point, these cameras measure your average speed over a longer stretch of road.
How Do They Work?
Here's the low-down on how these cameras catch leadfoots:
- The first camera snaps a photo of your car and records the time.
- As you cruise along, you'll pass another camera that does the same thing.
- The system then uses some fancy maths to calculate your average speed between the two points.
If you've been a bit heavy on the accelerator and your average speed is over the limit, you might find yourself in hot water.
The NSW Trial: A Game-Changer
Currently, in New South Wales, these cameras are only used for heavy vehicles. But hold onto your steering wheels, because that's about to change! NSW is gearing up to trial average speed cameras for all vehicles on two stretches of highway:
- Pacific Highway between Kew and Lake Innes (Port Macquarie)
- Hume Highway between Coolac and Gundagai
What This Means for Aussie Drivers
If you're planning a road trip through NSW, keep your eyes peeled for signs indicating average speed camera zones. During the 60-day trial period, speeders will recieve warning letters instead of fines. But don't get too comfy – after that, it's back to business as usual with fines and demerit points.
Speeding Penalties in New South Wales
| Offence | Fine | Demerit Points | License Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exceed speed limit by 10 km/h or less | $137 | 1 | N/A |
| Exceed speed limit by more than 10 km/h | $316 | 3 | N/A |
| Exceed speed limit by more than 20 km/h | $542 | 4 | N/A |
| Exceed speed limit by more than 30 km/h | $1,036 | 5 | 3 months minimum |
| Exceed speed limit by more than 45 km/h | $2,794 | 6 | 6 months minimum |
Source: Service NSW
Where will they be located?
Tips for Navigating Average Speed Zones
- Maintain a steady, legal speed throughout the entire zone.
- Don't think you can speed up and slow down to "average out" – it's not worth the risk.
- Remember, these cameras work day and night, rain or shine.
The Future of Speed Enforcement
As NSW joins the rest of mainland Australia in using these cameras for all vehicles, we might see a shift in how we approach long-distance driving. It's not just about slowing down for a single camera anymore – it's about consistant, safe driving practises.
So, next time you're cruising down the highway, remember: these cameras are watching your journey, not just a moment. Stay safe, stick to the limits, and enjoy the ride!
Dylan Gow
Dylan Gow
