AWAS cameras are looking at you
As was announced previously, the Road Transport Department, or better known as JPJ, has taken over operations of the AES cameras beginning 1 September. What is also important to note that the system is now officially known as AWAS (Automated Awareness Safety System). The system comprises of both speed cameras (29 units) and red-light cameras (16) for a total of 45 units.
[Interesting fact: AWAS cameras issued 1,268 summonses within the first 48 hours of enforcement under JPJ]
Three signboards will warn drivers of speed camera locations placed one, two, and three kilometres respectively before the actual installation. For red light cameras, the location for signboards would be between 50 metres and one kilometre prior.
Those who are caught breaking the speed limit or run the red light are given a RM300 compound for 60 days. There will also be a demerit in the driver’s points. YES, the merit system is again being talked about (this will be interesting to keep tabs on).
In any case, it’s a four point demerit for traffic light violation involving regular vehicles and six points for buses.
As for speeding, drivers of regular vehicles will have two points deducted for 1kph to 25kph of going above the speed limit. Go 25kph to 40kph above it and that’s three points; go above 40kph and it’s four points.
Bus drivers will see four points off their total by going above between 1kph and 25kph; five points for 25kph to 40kph, and six points for going above the speed limit by 40kph. Do remember that your points are still deducted even if you pay your compound fine on time.
Those who have collected 20 points and above may see their full license suspended or even cancelled by the director general of JPJ according to section 35 of the Road Transport Act 1987. Those with probationary license will get immediate cancellation of their license. Not a good idea to continue driving/riding when your license is cancelled or suspended as the penalty for that is a fine no less than RM3,000 and not exceeding RM10,000, or jail time of no longer than three years.
