Fixed Speed Cameras

Fixed speed cameras are speed cameras that are located in a permanent position, usually attached to a pole alongside a section of road.

Fixed speed cameras operate in a similar way to mobile speed cameras, in that the speed detection is by way of a slant RADAR.

Fixed speed cameras that take traditional ‘wet film’ images require regular checking and film replacement.   Fixed speed cameras take photos automatically, and are not subject to constant police officer supervision like a mobile camera.

All fixed speed cameras are annually calibrated for accuracy as required by the Australian Standards, similarly to mobile speed cameras.  They also receive regular checks to ensure that they are operating correctly.

Like mobile speed cameras, fixed speed cameras are also located in speed camera zones that are identified according to crash criteria.  The primary criterion for fixed speed cameras is at least five speed related crashes of all severities or serious casualty crashes that are non-intersection related within the previous five years.
Zones are prioritised for speed camera installation by calculating crash severity scores using the Estimated Property Damage Only (EPDO) method.  The EPDO method is a point-based system aimed at allocating speed cameras to the zones with more frequent and severe crashes.

Fixed speed cameras are usually installed in locations that satisfy speed camera site criteria, but are unsuitable for other enforcement methods (e.g., nowhere safe to park a mobile speed camera van or for a police officer to pull vehicles over). 

In exceptional circumstances zones can also be assigned speed cameras based on the assessed risk of the location, and the potential for crashes to occur.  These zones could have a history of excessive high-risk behaviour and associated crash risk, an inability to be enforced by another method, or be a specific road type (e.g., tunnel or bridge) where crashes could be more likely or severe. 

Usually motorists are faced with advisory signs stating ‘FIXED SPEED CAMERA AHEAD’ and ‘FIXED SPEED CAMERA 24 HOURS’ on approach to the speed camera site.  Both of these signs are usually located within one kilometre of the fixed speed camera site.

Digital speed cameras, when introduced around mid-2010, will use digital camera technology, instead of ‘wet film’. 

For further information on speed cameras and the location of fixed speed cameras in Queensland please visit the Department of Transport and Main Roads website at:  http://www.transport.qld.gov.au/Home/Safety/Road/Speeding/Speeding_speed_cameras
For further information on camera detected offence infringement notices please visit the Queensland Police Service’s website at:   http://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/roadSafety/infringement.htm or contact the Traffic Camera Office on 1300 360 610.