New AI cameras in the UK are catching speeders in droves

AI-powered traffic cameras deployed by Humberside Police in the UK caught 849 traffic violations during a two-week trial in 2023, primarily focusing on mobile phone use and seat belt violations.

Trial results and implementation: The innovative camera system was tested over two separate weeks in March and June 2023, demonstrating significant effectiveness in detecting traffic violations.

• The cameras identified 533 cases of drivers not wearing seat belts and 2 instances of children under 14 without proper restraints
• 301 violations involved mobile phone use while driving
• 13 cases were recorded of drivers not maintaining proper vehicle control

Technology capabilities and process: The AI-powered camera system combines automated detection with human verification to ensure accuracy in enforcement.

• Cameras mounted on gantries provide clear views across all traffic lanes
• AI software processes footage to detect mobile phone use and seat belt violations
• Human reviewers validate all AI-flagged potential violations before enforcement action

Enforcement and penalties: The system supports substantial penalties for traffic violations to promote safer driving behavior.

• Seat belt violations can result in fines up to £500 plus penalty points
• Mobile phone use while driving carries fines up to £1,000 and six penalty points
• The program initially began in 2021 with warning letters to offending drivers

Safety implications: Research supports the importance of addressing these specific traffic violations.

• Drivers using mobile phones are four times more likely to be involved in accidents
• Not wearing a seat belt doubles the risk of fatal crashes
• Ian Robertson of Safer Roads Humber emphasizes the technology’s role in preventing deaths and serious injuries

Broader implementation: The initiative is part of a larger national safety program.

• National Highways has loaned the technology for trials across multiple police forces
• Other participating forces include Greater Manchester, Thames Valley, and West Mercia Police
• Humberside Police plans to continue using the cameras “sporadically throughout the year”

Future implications: The successful trial results suggest potential expansion of AI-powered traffic enforcement.

• The technology’s ability to catch hundreds of violations in just two weeks demonstrates its effectiveness as a law enforcement tool
• The combination of AI detection and human verification provides a scalable model for traffic safety enforcement
• The system’s success could influence other police forces to adopt similar technology for traffic safety programs