A new AI road safety camera has detected close to 300 driving offences within its first three days of use. The technology, provided by artificial intelligence company Acusensus, picked up 117 mobile phone violations and 180 related to seat belts in just 72 hours.
The camera was stationed on the A30 near Launceston, one of Devon and Cornwall’s busiest roads, by Vision Zero South West. It uses AI to capture images of potential road offences, which are then reviewed by a human for further consideration. Where an offence has correctly been identified, a warning letter or intended prosecution notice can then be issued to the driver.
The camera itself is a free-standing unit that provides 24/7 monitoring and can be positioned at a multitude of locations.
The relocatable technology launch follows Vision Zero South West’s 15-day trial of a similar van-based system by Acusensus last year. The pilot found 590 seatbelt offences and 45 mobile phone offences, also in the Devon and Cornwall area.
Adrian Leisk, head of road safety for Devon and Cornwall Police, says the results show a clear issue with mobile phone use while driving: “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.”
Alison Hernandez is the crime commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and chairs the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership. Hernandez says the tech is a chance to improve safety: “By embracing new technology such as the Acusensus ‘Heads Up’ system, we have the opportunity to improve compliance with these laws and consequently make our roads safer for everyone.”
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