Netherlands to install more cameras to detect mobile phone use at the wheel

The Dutch government is purchasing more ‘smart’ cameras to catch drivers with mobile phones in their hands after a trial showed the cameras were more than 95 per cent accurate at catching offenders.

It is hoped that fifty of the cameras will be up and running across the country from next year. The systems operate autonomously and run 24 hours a day, with photos of suspected offenders sent for review by the Central Judicial Collection Bureau (CJIB) before fines are issued.

Because the images are taken at a high angle, it is also possible to capture an image of a driver holding a cell phone under the steering wheel or on their lap.

The fine for driving with a phone in hand is 380 euros in the Netherlands.