New AI-powered cameras are being introduced to catch drivers violating traffic laws, with Greater Manchester being the latest area to adopt this technology. In July, nearly 300 drivers were caught by similar cameras on the A30 within just 72 hours.
Starting September 3rd, these cameras will be deployed across Greater Manchester as part of a national trial to enhance road safety. The primary focus is on drivers using smartphones while driving, an offense punishable by up to six penalty points and a £1,000 fine. Additionally, the cameras can identify individuals not wearing seat belts, both of which are significant contributors to traffic accidents.
Transport for Greater Manchester is partnering with technology firm Acusensus, whose AI-driven 'Heads Up' software is designed to automatically detect drivers using mobile phones or failing to wear seat belts. Originally trialed by National Highways in 2021, this technology can capture vehicles traveling at speeds of up to 300 km/h. The AI system analyses the footage to identify potential violations, which are then verified by a human reviewer. If an infraction is confirmed, a penalty notice is issued; if not, the footage is promptly deleted.
These advanced cameras, which can be mounted on trailers or vehicles and are positioned higher than standard traffic cameras, will also be used in a survey conducted by Safer Roads Greater Manchester. The goal is to assess the prevalence of these traffic violations and inform future safety campaigns.
This initiative follows the Safer Roads "Touch Screen" campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of using smartphones while driving. Despite ongoing efforts, Department for Transport data shows that 400,000 drivers in the UK still use mobile devices while driving, making them four times more likely to be involved in a crash. Moreover, not wearing a seat belt doubles the risk of fatality in an accident.
Recent reports reveal that 31% of drivers aged 18 to 26 have filmed themselves while driving, with many posting these videos on social media, potentially incriminating themselves.
Peter Boulton, TfGM's Network Director for Highways, emphasised that distractions and failure to wear seat belts are leading causes of serious road accidents in Greater Manchester. By utilising Acusensus' cutting-edge technology, the hope is to better understand the scope of these issues and reduce dangerous driving practices.
The AI camera rollout is part of an extended trial by National Highways and police forces across England, which will continue until March 2025. Ten police forces are currently participating, including those in Greater Manchester, Durham, Humberside, Staffordshire, West Mercia, Northamptonshire, Wiltshire, Norfolk, Thames Valley, and Sussex. The trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of AI technology on National Highway roads and inform future nationwide deployments, with plans to eventually install these cameras on motorway gantries in the trial regions.
