A driver has launched a scathing attack on AI-powered traffic cameras, branding them an 'outrageous overreach' after he was slapped with a hefty $550 fine because his daughter's seatbelt slipped for a mere 'split second' while she was tying her hair.
Father Fined for Momentary Seatbelt Slip
Nick Dekker was driving along the Kwinana Freeway in Western Australia in January, heading to a beach with his family. His 12-year-old daughter was sitting in the passenger seat and began to tie her hair, causing the seatbelt to move momentarily from above her shoulder to underneath it.
Mr Dekker was hit with the substantial fine, while his partner lost four demerit points because the vehicle was registered in her name. 'A lot happens in a car full of kids; it's a pretty active place to be,' he told 9News. 'I didn't even notice that my daughter was doing her hair or that the seatbelt had slipped behind. It was just that split second.'
Criticism of Camera Nit-Picking
Mr Dekker expressed strong frustration, arguing that the cameras are being excessively nit-picky and should show more leniency. 'They are now looking into our cars with their cameras and it's a fine line,' he said. 'Kids turn around all the time in the front seat. You try to tell them not to, but what are you going to do, bolt them down so they don't wriggle?'
Further Complaints from Parents
This incident is not isolated. Another parent, Leesa Taylor, reported being at risk of losing her licence after her daughter with ADHD shifted her seatbelt mid-journey while driving from Dunsborough to Perth. Ms Taylor, who lost eight demerit points, emphasised that the technology must better account for neurodivergent children.
Advanced Camera System Rollout
The AI-driven camera system was introduced in Western Australia in early 2025, touted as the most advanced technology of its kind in the country. The WA Government announced that six mobile safety camera trailers would be deployed over six months, alongside upgrades to fixed cameras at two sites on the Kwinana Freeway.
These new safety cameras are capable of detecting multiple offences simultaneously, including speeding, illegal mobile phone use, and seatbelt violations. A six-month trial period allowed drivers to receive caution notices if caught, providing an opportunity to adjust behaviour before enforcement began in November.
High Volume of Infringements
Since enforcement started, more than 75,000 infringements have been issued for seatbelt and mobile phone offences. A Road Safety Commission spokesman defended the technology, stating it has proven effective by leading to a significant drop in offences.
'As predicted, the cameras have revealed new insights into driver and passenger behaviour that hasn't been captured on scale before,' they said. 'The cameras are proving to be extremely effective and efficient as a road safety tool in helping to make WA roads safer.'
Commission Acknowledges Concerns
Commissioner Adrian Warner acknowledged the concerns raised by parents. 'I can very much understand where [parents are] coming from,' he said. 'The volume of appeals and questions that we're getting to the helpline is increased.'
The Commission recognises that children and adults have different physical standards and is actively working to bridge this gap in enforcement. However, the debate continues as drivers like Mr Dekker call for a more balanced approach to road safety technology.
