New Freestanding AI Traffic Cameras Rolled out

Devon and Cornwall Police has announced an updated version of the much-talked-about Artificial Intelligence (AI) traffic cameras that are now being put to work on the South West’s roads.

The trial of AI traffic cameras began in 2021, and features cameras mounted on moving vehicles able to keep up with the flow of traffic, vans parked at the roadside, and, as is the case with Devon and Cornwall, static trailers that are parked and left at the roadside. Tall booms and gantries allow the cameras to capture a full picture of the entire road, with AI then selecting images of the interior of cars and vans and highlighting images that it deems show people committing offences.

The equipment is looking to catch people who are either travelling without using their seat belts, people using their mobile phones, or otherwise getting distracted behind the wheel. The AI part of the technology determines if it ‘thinks’ that an offence is being committed, but unlike static speed cameras, it won’t immediately issue a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP). Instead, the image is sent on to the relevant police force, which will then determine whether or not it needs to pursue further action.

National Highways claims that drivers are four times more likely to be in a crash if they use their phone while driving and twice as likely to die in a crash if they don’t wear a seatbelt. If found guilty of such offences, drivers can be fined up to £500 for not wearing a seatbelt in addition to penalty points. Using a mobile phone while driving can result in a fine of up to £1,000 and six penalty points.

The success of the early part of the trial will now be extended, with Durham, Greater Manchester, Humberside, Staffordshire, West Mercia, Northamptonshire, Wiltshire, Norfolk, Thames Valley and Sussex police forces now joining the extended part of the trial.

Speaking about the new cameras, Head of Road Safety for Devon and Cornwall Police, Adrian Leisk said:

“The vast majority of drivers in Devon and Cornwall are safe, respectful and conscientious motorists … But we know mobile phone distraction and not wearing a seatbelt are a serious danger to all road users. 

“Around a third of all fatal collisions nationally involve someone who wasn’t wearing a seatbelt – and not wearing one means you are twice as likely to die in the event of a serious collision. 

“With regards to those who use mobile phones while behind the wheel, we hope these cameras will send a clear message – you will get caught.

“It’s just not worth it. Before you start your journey, put your phone away in the glove box or somewhere you cannot reach it so the temptation is not there.

“If it’s an emergency, make sure you pull in and stop the car before making that call.” 

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Image credit: Vision Zero South West