Sussex Police have started trialling AI-powered cameras on the A23 near Handcross as part of a new initiative to catch reckless drivers who use mobile phones or fail to wear seatbelts. This technology is being deployed alongside nine other police forces across England to enhance road safety.
The system, mounted on vehicles and trailers, uses multiple cameras combined with artificial intelligence to detect drivers and passengers breaking seatbelt laws or using mobile phones behind the wheel. The cameras scan footage for offences, which are then reviewed by police officers.
The trial, which began on 19 February 2024 in partnership with AECOM, is designed to reduce risky driving behaviour before it results in accidents. Initially, offenders received warnings to educate them about the dangers, but due to an increase in accidents caused by mobile phone use and seatbelt neglect, enforcement has now been stepped up.
Drivers caught not wearing a seatbelt face fines of up to £500, while those using a mobile phone while driving can be fined up to £1,000 and receive penalty points on their licence.
The trial is scheduled to continue until March 2025. Future plans include installing the AI technology on gantries to cover all lanes, potentially transforming road safety enforcement across the UK.
Assistant Chief Constable Simon Dobinson said: “This is an exciting initiative and I’m looking forward to seeing the outcomes from the initial trial. It gives us a unique opportunity to learn how AI-enabled cameras can potentially support Partnership colleagues and ourselves in influencing driver behaviour and keeping motorists safe on our roads.”
While National Highways funds the research, each police force will independently manage the enforcement of offences detected by the AI cameras.
Originally published by UKNIP.
