New AI cameras are being introduced in Greater Manchester to catch drivers breaking the law by using their smartphones or not wearing seatbelts.
This initiative is part of a broader national trial aimed at enhancing road safety and reducing traffic accidents. The cameras, developed by Acusensus, will be operational from 3 September 2024 and are expected to be a game-changer in traffic law enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- AI cameras will detect drivers using smartphones and those not wearing seatbelts.
- The trial will run until March 2025 and includes 10 police forces across England.
- Offenders could face fines and penalty points on their licences.
- The initiative aims to reduce road accidents and improve overall road safety.
How the AI Cameras Work
The AI cameras, built by technology company Acusensus, use advanced software to capture footage of passing vehicles. The system takes two photos at precise angles to detect if a driver is using a smartphone or not wearing a seatbelt. The footage is then reviewed by a human operator to confirm any offences before issuing a penalty charge notice.
Offences Detected by AI Cameras
The AI cameras can detect a range of offences, including:
- Using a mobile phone while driving: £200 fine and six penalty points
- Failing to wear a seatbelt: Maximum fine of £500
- Failing to stop for a red light: £100 fine and three penalty points
- Driving without a valid MOT: Maximum fine of £1,000
- Driving without insurance: £300 fine and six penalty points
Regions Participating in the Trial
The trial includes 10 police forces: Greater Manchester, Durham, Humberside, Staffordshire, West Mercia, Northamptonshire, Wiltshire, Norfolk, Thames Valley Police, and Sussex. The trial aims to understand how AI technology can be used on National Highway roads and shape any future nationwide rollout.
Effectiveness of AI Cameras
Previous trials have shown promising results. For instance, AI cameras on the A30 near Launceston in Devon caught 117 people using their mobile phones and 130 people not wearing seatbelts in just 72 hours. Similarly, Hampshire and Thames Valley police detected almost 500 offences in a week using AI cameras mounted on a van.
Privacy Concerns
While the initiative has received support from safety organisations like the RAC and AA, privacy groups have raised concerns. Critics argue that AI-powered video analytics are intrusive and could normalise excessive surveillance. However, police have assured that images are anonymised to protect privacy, and only those showing an offence are retained.
Future of AI Cameras
If the trial proves successful, AI cameras could be attached to gantries on motorways across the country. The data collected will also help shape future road safety campaigns, particularly those related to mobile phone usage and seatbelt compliance.
Conclusion
The rollout of AI cameras in Greater Manchester marks a significant step towards improving road safety. By leveraging advanced technology, authorities aim to reduce dangerous driving practices and make roads safer for everyone. The trial will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of AI in traffic law enforcement and could pave the way for a nationwide implementation.
Sources
- New AI cameras being rolled out to catch drivers breaking the law - here's how they work | This is Money, This is Money.
- New AI cameras to be rolled out from TODAY to catch drivers breaking the law - here’s six offences they can capture | The Sun, The Sun.
- New AI cameras to be rolled out from today to catch drivers breaking law - Stoke-on-Trent Live, Stoke on Trent Live.
- New AI cameras to catch UK drivers using smartphone at the wheel from tomorrow - Mirror Online, The Mirror.
- Map shows where new AI traffic cameras could be appearing on roads near you | UK News | Metro News, Metro.co.uk.
