New AI catches 300 drivers texting behind the wheel in just three days
Police in Devon and Cornwall caught almost 300 drivers breaking the law over three days using a new artificial intelligence (AI) system.
The system, developed by road safety tech firm Acusensus, uses AI to process images of passing motorists and determine if any laws have been broken.
Potential breaches, such as driving while using a mobile phone, not wearing a seatbelt, or speeding, are then sent to a human being for review.
Where an offence is identified, the driver is issued a warning letter or a notice of intention to prosecute, depending on the circumstance and severity.
In total, the AI system detected 117 mobile phone and 180 seat belt offences and is said to be 90% accurate in detecting breaches of the law.
It can also detect breaches that human officers might miss, such as drivers using their phones in their laps while driving.
This is the first time this system has been used in the UK after a 15-day larger, vehicle-based trial last year.
The new free-standing system can be easily moved and deployed at various locations across Devon and Cornwall. The camera is currently located on the A30 near Launceston.
‘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,’ said Adrian Leisk, head of road safety for Devon & Cornwall Police.
‘Whether it’s by the Acusensus cameras, a passing officer or on video footage submitted through Op Snap, the result will be the same and you will end up with a hefty fine and six penalty points – which could be enough to cost some drivers their license and livelihood.’
The police cautioned drivers to must pull in and stop the car before making a call if it’s an emergency.
The aim is to expand the project and provide constant monitoring of some the region’s busiest roads.
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