AI road cameras have caught hundreds of drivers breaking serious motoring rules over just two weeks, according to new data. The high-tech software has been trialled across several regions in the UK as part of a major police crackdown on vehicle safety.
The AI cameras can detect whether drivers are using their mobile phones behind the wheel or not wearing a seat belt. A staggering 849 traffic offences were recorded over two separate week-long trial periods in March and June.
The new technology picked up 533 drivers not wearing a seatbelt. Two of these were children under the age of 14 not wearing any seat belts while sitting in the front passenger seat.
Meanwhile, a further 301 motorists were found using their mobile phones while driving. An additional 13 drivers were observed by the cameras for not being in proper control of their vehicles.
The figures were obtained by motoring experts Cinch through a Freedom of Information request. Humberside Police has confirmed the cameras would be used again after a successful trial with the tools set to be introduced “sporadically throughout the year”, reports the Express.
Ian Robertson, spokesperson for Safer Roads Humber (SRH) described the findings as “disappointing”. However, he emphasised that new technology was “important” in the fight to reduce casualties.
He said: “At Safer Roads Humber, we are always looking at ways to make our roads safer and prevent death and serious injuries.”
“It is disappointing that so many road users chose to use their phones or not wear their seat belt in our area, putting themselves and others at risk.”
“The use of new technology is important to change road user behaviour to reduce casualties as far as possible, whilst working alongside traditional methods.”
The new technology picked up 533 drivers not wearing a seatbelt
(Image: iStockphoto/Getty Images)
Ten UK police forces, including Thames Valley Police and Greater Manchester Police, have been trialling the smart cameras. While some of the AI systems are attached to police cars, others are built into trailers parked at the side of the road.
The use of smart traffic cameras has been welcomed by road safety experts, who believe it will reduce the number of accidents on Britain’s roads.
Although the AI cameras have been rolled out, there have been some concerns about how they will be implemented and potential issues with incorrect fines have been raised.
However, RAC’s road safety expert Simon Williams notes authorities need to deploy technology to police the roads.
Mr Williams said: “While some drivers may criticise these cameras for unwanted snooping, the reality is that these days the police increasingly rely on technology to catch drivers breaking the law – after all, it’s impossible to have a police officer stationed on every street corner.”
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