At Criminal Lawyers Group, we are increasingly advising drivers who have received fines issued by AI traffic cameras — often for offences they strongly deny committing.
While these cameras play an important role in road safety, they are not infallible. Across New South Wales and Australia, drivers are being fined based on images that are ambiguous, misinterpreted, or simply wrong.
If you have received a fine and believe it is incorrect, you may have strong legal grounds to challenge it.
Key Takeaways
- AI traffic cameras detect mobile phone use, seatbelt offences, and speeding
- Errors do occur, with everyday objects mistaken for phones
- Do not pay the fine if you intend to challenge it
- You have the right to request a review or elect to go to court
- Legal defences may apply depending on your circumstances
- Early advice from experienced criminal lawyers is critical
What Are AI Traffic Cameras?
AI traffic cameras are now widely used across NSW and Australia. They capture high-resolution images of passing vehicles and use artificial intelligence to detect potential offences.
The system typically involves:
- Automated image capture
- AI-based detection
- Human review before a fine is issued
Despite this process, errors still occur — and when they do, drivers are often left to deal with the consequences.
What Do AI Cameras Detect?
AI cameras are designed to identify:
- Use of a mobile phone while driving
- Failure to wear a seatbelt properly
- Speeding offences
- Passengers not properly restrained
Penalties can include substantial fines and demerit points, with harsher consequences during double demerit periods.
When the Technology Gets It Wrong
At Criminal Lawyers Group, we have seen a growing number of cases where fines have been issued incorrectly.
Common issues include:
- Objects mistaken for mobile phones
- Seatbelts momentarily displaced but still worn
- Passengers’ conduct attributed to the driver
- Incorrect vehicle identification
Even a minor misinterpretation can result in significant penalties or licence suspension.
Objects Commonly Misidentified as Mobile Phones
AI systems rely heavily on shape and positioning. As a result, they can mistake everyday items for phones, including:
- Wallets or card holders
- Sunglasses or glasses cases
- Phone covers without a phone inside
- Food or drink items
These errors can lead to fines identical to those imposed for genuine mobile phone use.
How to Challenge an AI Traffic Camera Fine
If you believe your fine was wrongly issued, it is critical to act quickly.
Step 1: Do Not Pay the Fine
Paying the fine is treated as an admission of guilt and will usually prevent you from challenging it in court.
Step 2: Review the Camera Images
In NSW, images can be accessed through Revenue NSW.
Carefully examine:
- What is actually shown in your hand
- Whether the seatbelt is visible
- The clarity and angle of the image
These images form the foundation of your defence.
Step 3: Request a Formal Review
Under the Fines Act 1996 (NSW), you can request a review of the infringement.
During this process:
- The fine is placed on hold
- You can submit supporting material
- Authorities assess whether the fine should be withdrawn or upheld
Step 4: Elect to Go to Court
If the fine is not withdrawn, you can elect to have the matter heard in the Local Court of New South Wales.
At court:
- The prosecution must prove the offence beyond reasonable doubt
- The images and evidence can be challenged
- A traffic lawyer can argue that the evidence is insufficient
Legal Defences Available
Not every fine is legally valid. Depending on your situation, several defences may apply.
Honest and Reasonable Mistake
This may apply where:
- You took reasonable steps to comply with the law
- You were unaware of a temporary issue (e.g. a passenger adjusting a seatbelt)
Seatbelt Exemptions
Certain exemptions exist under road rules, including:
- Medical exemptions supported by a certificate
- Limited circumstances such as reversing
Passenger Responsibility
In some cases:
- The alleged breach relates to a passenger
- Arguments may be available to challenge driver liability
Challenging the Evidence
One of the most effective strategies is to challenge:
- The accuracy of the AI system
- The clarity of the images
- Whether the object shown is actually a phone
If there is reasonable doubt, the offence cannot be proven.
Why Legal Advice Matters
AI camera fines can seem straightforward, but they often involve complex evidentiary issues.
At Criminal Lawyers Group, we:
- Analyse camera evidence in detail
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution case
- Advise on the best strategy before you respond
- Represent clients in court to defend traffic offences
Speak to an Experienced Traffic Lawyer
Being wrongly fined by an AI camera is more common than many drivers realise. The biggest mistake people make is paying the fine without understanding their rights.
If you have received an infringement and believe it is incorrect, you should obtain legal advice as soon as possible.
At Criminal Lawyers Group, Principal Lawyer Steven Mercael leads a team experienced in defending traffic and criminal matters across NSW.
We regularly appear in the Local Court of New South Wales and act for clients facing:
- Traffic infringements
- Licence suspensions
- Court election matters
Final Note
AI enforcement is only going to increase. While the technology improves road safety, it also creates new risks for drivers who are wrongly accused.
If you believe a fine has been issued incorrectly, act early. The sooner you obtain advice, the stronger your position will be.