Telephone 01543 270270
New police cameras that use AI to detect drivers using their mobile phone behind the wheel begin their rollout following successful trials in several areas
Acusensus’ pioneering “heads-up” technology is being used to detect likely driving violations at the wheel. Two cameras capture images of drivers at two angles, one from a shallow angle which can identify whether a seatbelt is being worn or a mobile held to the ear, and one from a steeper angle to show whether a mobile is being used on the driver’s lap.
The images are passed to an AI System which will filter all the photos to identify the ones in which an offence is taking place. The images that it deems to show a violation are passed to humans for review. If an offence has been correctly identified, the driver will either be sent a warning letter or a notice of intended prosecution.
| The camera systems have been successfully piloted in twelve districts. In Devon and Cornwall, almost 600 people were caught without a seatbelt in the first few weeks. In the same area, 40 people were caught using their phone at the wheel. |
|
|
Adrian Leisk, head of road safety for Devon and Cornwall Police, said:"We are employing this new technology to send a clear message to anyone who continues to use their phone behind the wheel – you will get caught.” |
In a week long trial, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary and Thames Valley Police targeted commercial vehicles on the A34 and A303. During the week, the van identified 273 drivers or passengers not wearing a seat belt, 86 drivers using a phone at the wheel and 132 mechanical offences. There were also 5 arrests for drug-driving and disqualified driving.
|
Simon Gomer, head of the safer roads unit, said: "These are very exciting times and this has been a great opportunity for both forces to utilise the latest in AI technology. But the results we've had from just one week sadly show how prolific these offences are. We will continue to spread the message that distracted driving kills, these offences will be punished, and social habits need to change." |
 |
 |
