Cameras to record drivers using the mobile phone while driving are currently being tested by the Dutch police. In this way, the Netherlands wants to improve the enforcement of the prohibition on the use of mobile phones while driving.
The introduced solution allows to issue the tickets without having to stop cars. This will increase the effectiveness of the checks carried out. Ultimately, the cameras will be placed on overpasses. Directed towards the motorway, they will be able to quickly control a large number of vehicles.
The high-resolution cameras will ensure that there is no question of blurred image or mistake when issuing a ticket. In the picture taken, the registration number of the vehicle will allow to identify the driver and a ticket will be sent directly to his or her address. Each violation of the ban will be verified by police officers who will make the final decision on issuing a fine.
Bans in the Netherlands
It is worth noting, however, that according to the decision of a higher court in Leeuwarden, the Netherlands, you can use the phone while driving, provided that the device is in a holder and not in the driver’s hand.
Recall that the Dutch are very serious about the prohibition of using the phone while driving. In early March, the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security proposed a project under which the driver will be sentenced to two years in prison for … keeping the phone in his hand while driving. It is not yet known whether the proposed provision will come into force.
No use of the phone in Europe
The imposition of penalties on drivers who break the ban on telephone conversations while driving is increasingly common practice in European countries. In France, drivers have to reckon with the fines of 135 euros and 3 penalty points. The fine is imposed on drivers who use the phone not only while driving, but also at a standstill. Regulations also prohibit the use of headphones and their wireless equivalents.
On the other hand, in Germany, in October 2017, the regulations were tightened and the amount of fines imposed was increased. Using the mobile phone while driving is punished with a fine of 100 euros, i.e. 40 euros more than before. The regulations also apply to the use of tablets, laptops and e-book readers.
In Sweden, however, to increase road safety, the government decided to ban the use of mobile phones completely. The exception is the use of the hands-free system. The penalty for breaking the provision is 1.6 thousand Swedish kronor or about 160 EUR.