In a move that might remind some Americans of Orwellian surveillance, the UK is beefing up its road safety enforcement with AI technology. Safer Roads Humber has launched a new camera with artificial intelligence to catch drivers breaking the law by using their phones or not wearing their seat belts.
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High-tech application
This AI traffic camera, operated by Australian company Acusensus, will be stationed in East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire for a week. Despite its modest appearance, this camera is part of a national test by National Highways to improve road safety measures. According to Ian Robertson of Safer Roads Humber, this state-of-the-art equipment increases their ability to enforce road safety laws. The AI ​​camera, mounted on a visible trailer, captures images of drivers. The AI ​​system then scans these images for illegal phone use or seat belt violations. A post on X shows what appears to be one of the mobile cameras set up and ready to start scanning drivers:
Acusensus, AECOM and South Gloucestershire Council's road safety team will use new technology to better understand people using mobile phones while driving or not wearing a seat belt.
The results will be used in future road safety interventions. pic.twitter.com/8us7OpJv9B
— South Glos Council (@sgloscouncil) March 23, 2024
Sanctions for violations
Mobile phone use: Six points on your license and up to a $250 fine.
Not wearing a seat belt: Fine up to $125 if responsible for passengers under 14 years of age.
Educational courses may be offered as an alternative to fines or prosecution.
Broader trend in prosecutions
This initiative comes amid a significant increase in penalties for mobile phone use while driving. The AA reported a 93% increase in fixed penalties between 2021 and 2022, partly due to increased public reporting via dashcam footage. Many see these “Big Brother” tactics as a way to out-police average citizens and also increase revenue generation for the government.
National judgment in progress
Since its initial rollout in 2021, this technology has been part of a wider trial by National Highways. Early data from previous deployments in Devon and Cornwall showed nearly 300 breaches in just three days. The test will continue until March 2025, with data managed by infrastructure company AECOM.
conclusion
The trial of AI cameras in East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire reflects a growing trend in the use of advanced technology for 'road safety'. While some may see this as a necessary step, others could see it as a worrying sign of increased surveillance, feeding into a state network of mass surveillance.
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