Bilger wants to introduce so-called cell phone speed cameras nationwide

Federal Transport Minister Steffen Bilger (CDU) wants to advocate for the nationwide introduction of so-called cell phone speed cameras. Such devices, also called monocams, can detect road users who use their cell phones while driving. They are already in use in Rhineland-Palatinate.

"Innovative technologies such as cell phone speed cameras can detect whether a driver is distracted while driving and is holding a cell phone in his hand. They help to punish more consistently and noticeably increase traffic safety," said Bilger to the dpa news agency.

He pointed to the increasing trend in the number of accidents: more than a thousand accidents occurred every year in which drivers used electronic devices such as cell phones at the wheel and could therefore be distracted.

For a nationwide solution, a regulation in the Road Traffic Act is now needed, said Bilger. “I will also campaign for this at the request of the federal states.” In Rhineland-Palatinate we have already had very good experiences with the monocams.

The Rheinische Post had previously reported on a paper for the transport ministers' conference almost two weeks ago. Regarding "cell phone speed cameras", it says that the Federal Ministry of Transport is open to considering creating a federal regulation in the Road Traffic Act.

How do cell phone speed cameras work?

According to ADAC, a high-resolution, downward-facing camera will be installed on a motorway bridge, which will take photos into the car through the windshield. The Monocam system pays attention to cell phones in the driver's area and the appropriate hand position. If both criteria are met, the camera is triggered. Trained police officers then evaluate the images.

According to the ADAC, anyone who is caught using a cell phone while driving will face a fine of 100 euros and a point on the driving fitness register in Flensburg. If you endanger yourself or cause an accident, the fine increases to 150 or 200 euros. There are also two points and a one-month driving ban.

According to the ADAC, making phone calls while driving is not generally prohibited. Telephone calls via a hands-free system, a permanently installed vehicle system or a Bluetooth headset are permitted. However, it is forbidden to hold your cell phone in your hand or to your ear while driving.