Since warning signs ahead of mobile speed cameras were removed there has still been a massive spike in the number of infringements issued in Dubbo, although the number of reported offences has declined in the past two months.
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Until December last year, signs alerting motorists of upcoming mobile speed cameras were provided - but not mandated - in NSW, however a government crackdown resulted in their removal along with the number of cameras and hours of operation being tripled.
High-visibility decals on mobile speed detection vehicles were also reduced, or removed completely, with figures from the State Revenue Office showing the significant increase in the number of tickets being issued month-to-month.
From January through April, collectively, there were 749 speeding infringements issued at a value of $122,747. Incredibly, that four month total was almost double the 421 offences reported for the entire year prior to that.
There was a total of 246 of those issued in February, 241 in March and 185 in April around Dubbo this year, compared to just 14 offences in February, 22 in March and 32 in April 2020.
A number of motoring lobby groups, including the NRMA, have questioned whether unmarked cars will change behaviour at all or are merely revenue-raising devices, however the government remains unrepentant.
Maintaining his stance the initiative makes roads safety, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole sent a simple message to anyone questioning the move.
"If you drive to the speed limit you won't get fined. If you're not doing the wrong thing you have absolutely nothing to worry about," he said.
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Mr Toole suggested drivers 'need to change their culture' and concern should shift from the number of fines being dished out to how many motorists are still choosing to speed.
"It's scary how many people are driving about the speed limit," he said.
"(They're) putting not only their lives but everyone else at risk (too). No one likes getting a fine in the mail but what is far worse is getting a knock on the door saying your loved one has been seriously hurt or killed in an accident involving speed."
Mr Toole welcomed an inquiry by the Joint Standing Committee on Road Safety into the government's mobile speed camera program.
"At the end of the day it's about saving lives," he said.
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