AI cameras are now being deployed to identify and ticket drivers who are using their phones while driving.
The UK has introduced its first long-term AI-based road safety camera scheme, aimed at addressing the risks posed by drivers using mobile phones and not wearing seatbelts. This initiative, which covers roads in Devon and Cornwall, is part of the Vision Zero South West (VZSW) program, a joint effort by the two counties. The program will deploy roadside cameras designed to detect mobile phone and seatbelt violations.
In the first three days of operation, the cameras recorded nearly 300 offenses. Adrian Leisk, Head of Road Safety at Devon and Cornwall Police, emphasized the program’s goal to make it clear that drivers using phones while driving will be detected.
This initiative follows a recent decision by the UK government to extend trials of AI cameras, prompted by a 90% increase in drivers using mobile phones while driving last year. Since 2021, several UK police forces, including Devon and Cornwall, have been testing this new camera technology that uses AI to identify mobile phone use by drivers.
Data from these trials have highlighted the extent of the issue. Convictions for phone use while driving increased from 6,990 in 2022 to 13,332 in 2023, reaching a seven-year high. The Department for Transport estimates that up to 400,000 drivers annually use their phones while driving.
The trial scheme, now extended until 2025, involves 10 police forces across the UK: Durham, Greater Manchester Police, Humberside, Staffordshire, West Mercia, Northamptonshire, Wiltshire, Norfolk, Thames Valley Police, and Sussex. Devon and Cornwall’s project, while utilizing similar technology, is part of the separate VZSW initiative.
The AI cameras, known as ‘Acusensus,’ were developed by the Texas-based company AECOM and are supported by the RAC. Rod Dennis from the RAC commented that despite increased penalties for phone use while driving, many drivers continue to engage in this risky behavior. He noted that AI-equipped cameras offer a practical solution, as they help police enforce the law more effectively when they cannot be present everywhere.
Camera Vans and Lorries
In addition to AI cameras, police forces are using unmarked camera vans and lorries to capture illegal phone use. Jack Cousens from the AA noted that despite stricter laws, many drivers are still violating them. He advised drivers to keep their phones out of reach to avoid distractions.
Road Tax Convictions
Recent figures from the Ministry of Justice reveal a significant rise in road tax evasion, with convictions nearly doubling to 99,694 in the past year. Convictions for jumping red lights or ignoring traffic signs also reached a 12-year high in 2023, with 11,940 cases. However, speeding convictions fell by 8% to 203,500, and drink and drug driving convictions remained stable compared to 2022.
