With the 2024 Christmas school holidays underway, recent SAPOL data from 2023 has revealed the top 10 regional locations where drivers were caught speeding by both fixed and mobile cameras. Alarmingly, half of these sites were located in the Adelaide Hills, highlighting the importance of sticking to the speed limit as holiday traffic increases.
Fixed Cameras: South Eastern Freeway Dominates
The most active fixed camera in regional SA for 2023 was at Crafers on the South Eastern Freeway, which recorded 7,012 speeding offences and issued $3,985,553 in fines, including the VOC levy.
In fact, the top four regional fixed camera locations were all along the South Eastern Freeway in the Adelaide Hills, with three operating as point-to-point cameras. These figures underscore the significant risks associated with speeding on this busy stretch of road.
Mobile Cameras: Hills Hotspots
Among mobile speed camera locations, Ironbank Road in Ironbank topped the list, catching 772 speeding drivers and generating $407,036 in fines. Again, five of the top 10 mobile camera sites were in the Adelaide Hills, where lower traffic volumes may tempt some drivers to exceed the limit.
The Risks of Speeding
According to SAPOL, excessive speed contributes to 30% of fatal crashes, with 70% of road deaths occurring in regional areas. Even minor increases in speed can greatly extend stopping distances, reducing the chance to avoid unexpected hazards.
“Excessive speed is one of the fatal five causes of road trauma. Drivers must remember to drive to the conditions and at a speed that allows them to safely respond to unexpected situations.”
Holiday Safety Tips
- Stick to the speed limit. Avoid the temptation to exceed it, even on quieter regional roads.
- Stay vigilant near schools. Some holiday programs are still in operation, and children may be present during drop-off and pick-up times.
- Drive to the conditions. Weather and traffic can change quickly, especially in regional areas.
Top 10 Regional Fixed Speed Camera Locations (2023)
| Location | Type | Offences | Fines (incl. VOC Levy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Eastern Fwy, Crafers | Mid Block | 7,012 | $3,985,553 |
| South Eastern Fwy, Nairne to Callington | Point to Point | 1,239 | $729,008 |
| South Eastern Fwy, Callington to Mt Barker Summit | Point to Point | 799 | $462,301 |
| South Eastern Fwy, Nairne | Point to Point | 724 | $414,315 |
| Port Wakefield Rd, Port Wakefield to Two Wells | Point to Point | 698 | $417,773 |
| Port Wakefield Rd, Two Wells to Port Wakefield | Point to Point | 620 | $363,833 |
| Victor Harbor Rd, Whites Valley to Tatachilla | Point to Point | 344 | $187,880 |
| Dukes Hwy, Coonalpyn to Ki Ki | Point to Point | 319 | $183,714 |
| South Eastern Fwy, Callington (west) | Mid Block | 252 | $150,222 |
| Dukes Hwy, Ki Ki to Coonalpyn | Point to Point | 244 | $141,316 |
Top 10 Regional Mobile Speed Camera Locations (2023)
| Location | Speed Limit | Offences | Fines (incl. VOC Levy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ironbank Rd, Ironbank | 60 | 772 | $407,036 |
| Kersbrook Rd, Kersbrook | 80 | 678 | $371,628 |
| Onkaparinga Valley Rd, Verdun | 50 | 602 | $267,373 |
| Sutton Ave, Mount Gambier | 50 | 588 | $230,321 |
| Alexandrina Rd, Mount Barker | 50 | 496 | $208,287 |
| Haylock Rd, North Moonta | 50 | 428 | $228,912 |
| Battunga Rd, Meadows | 50 | 426 | $207,083 |
| Murray St, Nuriootpa | 50 | 410 | $176,151 |
| Paris Creek Rd, Paris Creek | 80 | 363 | $205,045 |
| North Tce, Port Elliot | 50 | 308 | $118,569 |
These tables showcase the most active regional fixed and mobile speed cameras in 2023, highlighting locations where drivers were most frequently caught speeding and the significant fines incurred.
As school holidays bring more traffic to South Australia’s regional roads, remember that small choices, like staying within the speed limit, can save lives. Drive safely and enjoy the festive season responsibly!
