Storm topples speed cameras that catches drivers using phones, all units disabled
The Netherlands has temporarily disabled its “focusflitsers,” mobile speed cameras that detect drivers using phones, after one toppled onto the N50 near Kampen during the first autumn storm on Monday, authorities said.
Across the country, emergency services dealt with fallen trees and storm-related damage. According to AD, the toppled focusflitser partially landed in a traffic lane, prompting the precautionary shutdown of all such devices.
The Public Prosecution Service is investigating the cause of the incident. “How this happened and whether the wind played a role is being further examined,” said Larissa Taal, spokesperson for the OM’s Central Processing Department, which manages the rotating cameras.
The cameras, first deployed in May in The Hague, photograph all passing drivers and can detect mobile phone use. Only images showing a phone in a driver’s hand are forwarded to the Central Judicial Collection Agency (Centraal Justitieel Incassobureau, CJIB). A special enforcement officer then reviews the photos; if confirmed, a 430-euro fine is sent to the driver. All other images are immediately deleted.
Until the investigation concludes, no drivers will be fined via the focusflitsers. The OM has not yet disclosed the repair costs or when the cameras will be operational again.
