Ben Digance claims traffic camera proves he's innocent after $560 phone fine

In December 2024, Ben Digance, while driving on the Southern Expressway in Adelaide, received a $556 fine after a phone detection camera captured an image showing his left hand resting on his lap. Authorities interpreted the image as proof that he was gripping his mobile device, leading to the fine issued by the South Australian Police. However, Digance insists he was not using his phone during the incident and that the evidence does not present a clear indication of wrongdoing. He keeps his phone in the storage compartment between the driver's seat and the front passenger seat, making it unlikely that he would have been using it at the time. Despite his claims and requests for a review of the camera footage, authorities stated they could not assist him further. This dispute highlights a growing concern among drivers in South Australia regarding the efficiency and reliability of the new phone detection cameras that have been actively monitoring for phone usage while driving. Many motorists have expressed similar frustrations where fines were issued without conclusive evidence of infractions, suggesting a need for a more thorough investigation into the camera systems and the circumstances of each alleged violation. Legal professionals like Karen Hill from Stanley Hill Elkins have noted that her firm has handled several cases where clients contested fines for the same reasons as Digance. These cases emphasize the increasing number of individuals who feel unfairly targeted by the phone detection cameras which, reportedly, caught over 28,000 drivers between October and December of the previous year. As distractions on the road remain a significant issue, leading to numerous fatalities and injuries, the balance between safety enforcement and fair processing of fines continues to be a contentious topic of discussion. Digance’s case is significant not only in its individual context but also in showcasing broader systemic issues surrounding the operation of automated enforcement technology. As these cameras become more prevalent, discussions by both the public and legal communities about their reliability will likely intensify, leading to possible reform in how such speed and phone detection measures are conducted and verified.