AI speed cameras that can see inside vehicles catch 849 drivers breaking rules amid national rollout plans
AI speed cameras have caught 849 drivers breaking road rules during a two-week trial in Humber last year, new figures reveal.
The cameras, deployed by Safer Roads Humber for one week each in March and June, detected multiple traffic violations across the region.
More than 500 motorists were caught not wearing seatbelts, with 533 adult offenders and two cases involving children under 14 in the front passenger seat.
The technology also identified 301 drivers using mobile phones whilst behind the wheel. A further 13 motorists were observed not being in proper control of their vehicles.
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The AI-powered system uses software to flag potential offences, with human operators reviewing the footage to confirm violations.
Following the successful trial, Safer Roads Humber has announced the cameras will be deployed “sporadically throughout the year”.
The initiative was part of a broader national scheme, with the cameras being loaned by National Highways to various police forces including Greater Manchester Police, Thames Valley Police and West Mercia Police.
Ian Robertson, from Safer Roads Humber, 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 seatbelt 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.”
Those caught without seatbelts face fines of up to £500 plus penalty points while mobile phone use while driving can result in fines up to £1,000 and six points on a licence.
The AI cameras capture footage of passing vehicles with artificial intelligence analysing whether motorists are using phones or driving without seatbelts.
All images flagged by the system of drivers potentially breaking the rules on the road are reviewed by police before any action is taken.
The technology is now being rolled out more widely, with 10 police forces across England participating in an extended National Highways trial.
The latest phase of testing began in February 2024 and will continue until March 2025.
Participating forces include Durham, Staffordshire, Northamptonshire, Wiltshire, Norfolk and Sussex, alongside the previously involved forces.
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Plans are in place to mount the cameras on gantries for the first time, providing an unobstructed view across all lanes.
Matt Staton, National Highways Head of National Road User Safety Delivery, said: “We know that distracted driving and not wearing seatbelts were key factors in a high number of incidents that resulted in people being killed or seriously injured.”
The trial aims to help understand how the technology could work on National Highways roads and inform potential nationwide implementation.