AI camera trial to catch drivers on their phones

A GROUND-BREAKING camera system which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to catch drivers using mobile phones behind the wheel is being trialled in Devon and Cornwall.

The technology, which can also detect whether drivers are wearing a seatbelt, is being rolled out on select routes across the two counties over the next two months.

The trial is being funded by the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership and overseen by Devon and Cornwall Police in an effort to deter drivers from distractions which can result in serious and fatal collisions. The Acusensus system is housed in a vehicle equipped with multiple cameras which record footage of passing motorists.

Images captured by the cameras are processed using AI to determine if motorists were using a handheld mobile phone or if drivers and passengers were without a seat belt.

It can also determine the speed a vehicle was travelling at that particular time.

Any images in which a potential offence is detected are then reviewed by a human. If an offence has been correctly identified, the driver will either be sent a warning letter or a notice of intended prosecution, depending on the severity.

Superintendent Adrian Leisk, Strategic Roads Policing lead for Devon & Cornwall Police, hopes the technology will help send a clear message to the small minority of motorists who continue to flout the law.

Supt Leisk 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.”